Hamburg

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Residency and Registration

Information about registering your residence and official documentation required for staying in Hamburg.

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Overview of Residency and Registration in Hamburg

In Germany, it is mandatory for all residents (both German citizens and foreigners) to register their address with the local authorities. This process is called Anmeldung (registration). If you move to Hamburg, you must register your residence within 14 days of moving into your new home. This is a legal requirement and is essential for accessing public services, opening a bank account, obtaining a tax ID, and more.

For non-EU/EEA nationals, additional steps may be required to obtain a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) if you plan to stay in Germany for more than 90 days.

1. Registration of Address (Anmeldung)

Who Needs to Register?

  • Anyone moving to Hamburg, whether from abroad or another German city.
  • Both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA nationals.
  • Families must register all members, including children.

Required Documents for Anmeldung

  1. Completed Anmeldung Form: Available online or at the Bürgeramt (citizen's office).
  2. Valid Passport or ID: For all individuals being registered.
  3. Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (Landlord Confirmation Form): A document signed by your landlord confirming your residence. This is mandatory.
  4. Rental Agreement (optional but recommended): To support your Wohnungsgeberbestätigung.
  5. Marriage Certificate (if applicable): If registering as a married couple.
  6. Birth Certificates (if applicable): For registering children.

Costs

  • Free of charge for the registration process.

Step-by-Step Procedure

  1. Find Your Local Bürgeramt: Locate the Bürgeramt (citizen's office) nearest to your residence in Hamburg. Popular locations include:
    • Hamburg-Mitte (City Center)
    • Altona
    • Eimsbüttel
    • Wandsbek
    • Harburg
  2. Book an Appointment: Appointments are required and can be booked online via the Hamburg Service Portal (https://www.hamburg.de/behoerdenfinder/).
  3. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate.
  4. Attend Your Appointment: Arrive on time with your documents. The process typically takes 10–15 minutes.
  5. Receive Your Meldebescheinigung: After successful registration, you will receive a Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate). Keep this document safe, as it is required for many administrative tasks.

Timeline

  • Registration must be completed within 14 days of moving in.
  • Appointments may take 1–2 weeks to secure, so plan ahead.

Tips

  • Book your appointment as early as possible, as slots fill up quickly.
  • If you cannot get an appointment within 14 days, keep proof (e.g., screenshots) of your booking attempt to show you tried to comply with the deadline.
  • Bring photocopies of your documents, though originals are required for verification.

2. Residence Permit (Aufenthaltstitel)

Who Needs a Residence Permit?

  • Non-EU/EEA nationals planning to stay in Germany for more than 90 days.
  • Common categories include:
    • Work visa holders
    • Students
    • Family reunification
    • Blue Card holders
    • Researchers

Required Documents for Residence Permit

  1. Valid Passport
  2. Completed Application Form: Available online or at the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners' Office).
  3. Biometric Passport Photo: Must meet German standards.
  4. Proof of Health Insurance: Public or private health insurance is mandatory.
  5. Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, employment contract, or scholarship confirmation.
  6. Proof of Purpose of Stay:
    • Work: Employment contract and job description.
    • Study: University admission letter.
    • Family Reunification: Marriage certificate or proof of relationship.
  7. Meldebescheinigung: Your registration certificate from the Bürgeramt.
  8. Rental Agreement: Proof of accommodation in Hamburg.

Costs

  • €100–€110 for most residence permits.
  • €147 for Blue Card applications.
  • Reduced fees for students, researchers, and certain other categories.

Step-by-Step Procedure

  1. Book an Appointment at the Ausländerbehörde: The Hamburg Foreigners' Office handles residence permits. Appointments can be booked online or by phone.
  2. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure all required documents are complete and translated into German (if necessary).
  3. Attend Your Appointment: Bring all documents and be prepared for an interview if required.
  4. Pay the Fee: Payment is typically made during the appointment.
  5. Wait for Processing: Processing times vary but usually take 4–8 weeks. You may receive a temporary permit in the meantime.
  6. Collect Your Residence Permit: Once approved, you will be notified to collect your permit.

Timeline

  • Appointments may take several weeks to secure, so book early.
  • Processing times are typically 4–8 weeks but can vary depending on the type of permit.

Tips

  • If your visa is about to expire, apply for an extension at least 6 weeks in advance.
  • Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.
  • If you need assistance, Hamburg offers integration services and legal aid for immigrants.

Local Offices for Residency and Registration

  1. Bürgeramt (Citizen's Office):

    • Handles address registration (Anmeldung).
    • Multiple locations across Hamburg. Use the Hamburg Service Portal to find the nearest one.

  2. Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners' Office):

    • Handles residence permits and visa-related matters.
    • Address: Amsinckstraße 28, 20097 Hamburg.
    • Phone: +49 40 42839-0
    • Website: Hamburg Immigration Office

Cultural and Practical Considerations

  1. Language: Most forms and official communications are in German. Consider bringing a translator or using translation apps if you are not fluent.
  2. Punctuality: Germans value punctuality. Arrive on time for all appointments.
  3. Appointments: Walk-ins are rarely accepted, so always book an appointment in advance.
  4. Public Transport: Use Hamburg’s excellent public transport system (HVV) to reach Bürgeramt or Ausländerbehörde locations.
  5. Integration Services: Hamburg offers free or low-cost integration courses, including German language classes, to help newcomers settle in.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to handle the residency and registration process in Hamburg. If you have further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask!