Frankfurt

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Local Government Offices

Guidance on accessing local administrative offices, such as registering your address, obtaining permits, and other official documentation.

Sections

a. Finanzamt Frankfurt am Main (Tax Office)

The Finanzamt is responsible for tax-related matters, including income tax, VAT, corporate tax, and issuing tax identification numbers.

Services Provided:

  • Issuing Tax Identification Numbers (Steuer-ID) for residents.
  • Processing income tax returns (Einkommensteuererklärung).
  • VAT (Umsatzsteuer) registration for businesses.
  • Tax clearance certificates.
  • Tax advice for individuals and businesses (limited to procedural guidance).

Procedures for Accessing Services:

  1. Tax Identification Number (Steuer-ID):

    • Automatically issued when you register your residence (Anmeldung) at the Bürgeramt.
    • If you lose your Steuer-ID, you can request a replacement online or in person at the Finanzamt.

  2. Filing Tax Returns:

    • Tax returns can be filed online via the ELSTER portal (https://www.elster.de) or by submitting paper forms to the Finanzamt.
    • For assistance, you can visit the Finanzamt or consult a tax advisor (Steuerberater).

  3. Business Tax Registration:

    • Businesses must register for VAT and corporate tax at the Finanzamt.
    • Submit the "Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung" form online or in person.

Costs:

  • No fees for Steuer-ID issuance or tax registration.
  • Late filing of tax returns may incur penalties.

Required Documentation:

  • Passport or ID card.
  • Proof of residence (Meldebescheinigung).
  • Completed tax forms (available online or at the Finanzamt).

Office Locations:

  • Finanzamt Frankfurt am Main I
    Gutleutstraße 114, 60327 Frankfurt am Main
    Phone: +49 69 2545-01
    Website: Finanzamt Frankfurt

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    (Some offices may offer extended hours on specific days; check the website for updates.)

Cultural/Practical Tips:

  • Appointments are recommended for in-person visits.
  • Most staff speak German; bring a translator if needed.
  • Be punctual and bring all required documents to avoid delays.

2. Local Services-Related Government Offices

Local services such as residence registration, work permits, and vehicle registration are managed by the Bürgeramt and other specialized offices.

a. Bürgeramt (Citizen’s Office)

The Bürgeramt is the primary point of contact for residents to handle administrative tasks.

Services Provided:

  • Residence registration (Anmeldung) and deregistration (Abmeldung).
  • Issuance of residence certificates (Meldebescheinigung).
  • Address changes.
  • Issuance of ID cards and passports.
  • Parking permits for residents.

Procedures for Accessing Services:

  1. Residence Registration (Anmeldung):

    • Mandatory within 14 days of moving to Frankfurt.
    • Book an appointment online or by phone.
    • Visit the Bürgeramt in person to complete the process.

  2. Address Changes:

    • Notify the Bürgeramt within 14 days of moving to a new address.
    • Follow the same procedure as Anmeldung.

  3. Parking Permits:

    • Apply online or in person.
    • Provide proof of residence and vehicle ownership.

Costs:

  • Anmeldung/Abmeldung: Free.
  • Residence certificate (Meldebescheinigung): €9.
  • Parking permits: €25–€50 per year, depending on the district.

Required Documentation:

  • Passport or ID card.
  • Rental agreement or proof of residence (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung).
  • Completed application forms (available online or at the Bürgeramt).

Office Locations:

  • Bürgeramt Frankfurt Mitte
    Zeil 3, 60313 Frankfurt am Main
    Phone: +49 69 115
    Website: Bürgeramt Frankfurt

  • Bürgeramt Höchst
    Dalbergstraße 14, 65929 Frankfurt am Main

Operating Hours:

  • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday, Friday: 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (limited services).

Cultural/Practical Tips:

  • Appointments are mandatory for most services; book online well in advance.
  • Bring all required documents, as incomplete applications will not be processed.
  • Be polite and patient, as waiting times can be long.

b. Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office)

The Ausländerbehörde handles immigration-related services, including residence permits and work visas.

Services Provided:

  • Issuance and renewal of residence permits.
  • Work visa applications.
  • EU Blue Card processing.
  • Family reunification permits.

Procedures for Accessing Services:

  1. Residence Permits:

    • Book an appointment online or by phone.
    • Submit your application in person at the Ausländerbehörde.

  2. Work Visas:

    • Obtain a job offer and approval from the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit).
    • Submit your application at the Ausländerbehörde.

Costs:

  • Residence permits: €50–€110, depending on the type and duration.
  • EU Blue Card: €100–€140.

Required Documentation:

  • Passport.
  • Proof of residence (Meldebescheinigung).
  • Proof of income or employment contract.
  • Health insurance certificate.
  • Completed application forms.

Office Locations:

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM
    (Extended hours on Thursdays until 6:00 PM.)

Cultural/Practical Tips:

  • Appointments are mandatory and can be booked online.
  • Bring a German-speaking friend or translator if you are not fluent in German.
  • Be prepared for long waiting times, even with an appointment.

c. Kfz-Zulassungsstelle (Vehicle Registration Office)

The Kfz-Zulassungsstelle handles vehicle registration, license plates, and driver’s licenses.

Services Provided:

  • Vehicle registration and deregistration.
  • Issuance of license plates.
  • Driver’s license applications and renewals.

Procedures for Accessing Services:

  1. Vehicle Registration:

    • Book an appointment online.
    • Submit your application in person.

  2. Driver’s License:

    • Exchange a foreign driver’s license for a German one (if applicable).
    • Complete a driving test if required.

Costs:

  • Vehicle registration: €30–€50.
  • License plates: €20–€40.
  • Driver’s license exchange: €35–€50.

Required Documentation:

  • Passport or ID card.
  • Proof of residence (Meldebescheinigung).
  • Vehicle documents (e.g., purchase contract, insurance).
  • Completed application forms.

Office Locations:

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM
    (Extended hours on Thursdays until 6:00 PM.)

Cultural/Practical Tips:

  • Appointments are required for most services.
  • Ensure your vehicle insurance is valid before registration.
  • Be patient, as the process can take time.

By following this guide, you should be able to navigate Frankfurt’s local government offices efficiently. Always check the official websites for the latest updates and requirements.