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South Africans in Germany

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Moving from One Town to Another in Germany

Moving within Germany, whether it’s to a neighbouring town or a different state, is a process that involves more than just packing up your belongings and setting up in a new home. German bureaucracy is known for its thoroughness, and to ensure a smooth transition, there are several important steps and considerations to keep in mind. This guide will help you navigate the process, focusing especially on the essential steps of Anmeldung (registration) and Abmeldung (deregistration).

Anmeldung

Registering Your New Residence

In Germany, it is legally required to register your new address at the local residents’ registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt) within two weeks of moving. This process, known as Anmeldung, is crucial for several reasons:

  • Official Address: It updates your official place of residence, which is important for all official correspondence, including tax documents, voting registration, and government communication.
  • Documents: The Anmeldung process also updates your address on your identity documents, such as your Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate), which you will need for many bureaucratic processes
  • Banking and Contracts: Many contracts, like those for mobile phones or banking, require your current address. Failing to update these can lead to complications or missed communications.

Abmeldung

Deregistering Your Old Residence

While not always necessary when moving within Germany, Abmeldung might be required in certain situations, such as:

  • Moving abroad.
  • Giving up a second residence.

If Abmeldung is needed, inform the registration office of your previous town. This can often be done by mail or, in some places, online. Make sure to keep a copy of your Abmeldebescheinigung (deregistration certificate) as proof of your former residence status.

Additional

Bureaucratic Considerations

Beyond registration, there are other important bureaucratic tasks to consider:

  • Updating Vehicle Registration: If you own a car, you need to update your vehicle registration and driver’s license address. This typically involves visiting the local vehicle registration office (Kfz-Zulassungsstelle).
  • Informing Utilities and Service Providers: Notify your utility providers (electricity, gas, water) and other service providers (internet, phone, insurance) about your move to ensure a seamless transition of services. This is also the time to update your mailing address for any subscriptions or memberships.
  • Changing Schools: If you have children, you will need to transfer them to a new school. The requirements and procedures can vary depending on the federal state (Bundesland), so it’s best to check with both the old and new schools for specific instructions.
  • Updating Your Employer: Don’t forget to inform your employer of your new address to ensure payroll and any necessary tax adjustments are correctly handled.
  • Health Insurance and Medical Records: Ensure that your health insurance provider is informed of your new address. Additionally, consider transferring your medical records to a new doctor, especially if you are moving to a different town or city where your current doctor does not practice.
  • Pension Funds: Your yearly statements are sent to your physical address

Where to find help

For a smooth and stress-free moving experience, consider enlisting the help of professional moving companies or local *Umzugshelfer* (moving helpers), who can assist with packing, transporting, and unpacking your belongings. Additionally, friends and family can be invaluable for support during this transition. If you’re looking for more affordable options, consider hiring students or individuals offering their services as mini-jobbers, who often advertise on platforms for short-term work. You can find more information on our Minijobs and Hired Help page.

Doing it yourself

Transport
If you choose to handle the move yourself or with the assistance of friends, you can rent a moving van (Transporter). You can also rent a van with a driver.
Below is a list of companies that provide rental services for moving vehicles.
Don’t forget to show your appreciation to your friends with a braai and some beers as a thank-you for their help!


Packing:
You can buy Umzugkartons online at shops like Amazon, OBI etc. or at your local Hardware store. If you dont mind using second hand boxes, you can go ask at Grocery stores if you can have some of their boxes that they usually throw in the recycle bins.
Tips
Utilities

You may be able to continue with the same service provider, but it's important to confirm this. If they do not offer services at your new address, be sure to cancel your utilities account ahead of time.

mail delivery

The German Postal services have a "Nachsendeservice" that you can use to reroute your physical mail to your new address

Certificates

You will need a new Wohnungsgeberbescheinigung from your new landlord, which is required for your Anmeldung.

photos

On your last day, be sure to take photos of all the utility readings. Also do this when moving in on your first day

Info on the web

Here are some helpful websites

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