Especially in the case of long-term stays, it may be necessary to register a residence. Questions regarding this topic frequently come our way, and we aim to provide comprehensive answers in this article.
Do I have to register a residence?
As a general rule, anyone moving into a residence in Germany is required to register with the local registration office (Meldebehörde) within two weeks of moving in. However, there are some exceptions to this regulation (see Section 27 BMG).
For instance, certain professional groups such as soldiers, federal police officers, or members of the public service are exempt from the registration requirement under certain conditions (Section 27 (1) BMG).
The registration requirement also typically does not apply to shorter stays (Section 27 (2) BMG):
- Persons who are currently registered in Germany and are moving to another residence for a stay of no more than 6 months, do not have to register or deregister at this residence.
- Persons who usually live abroad and move into an accommodation for a stay of no more than 3 months are not subject to the general registration obligation.
So, if it is already clear upon check-in that your stay will exceed 6 months (or 3 months for those whose regular residence is abroad), you must register with the local registration office within 2 weeks of moving in. Otherwise, you must register within the 2-week period if you have not moved out after the 6- or 3-month period has expired.
As the legal situation can be complex in individual cases, we recommend registering your residence early or checking with the local authorities if you are unsure.
Where can I register?
The authority responsible for our guests is the citizens' office (Bürgerbüro) of the municipality of Eching:
Gemeinde Eching – Bürgerbüro
Bürgerplatz 1
85386 Eching
Contact & opening hours
Registration is free of charge and possible without prior appointment during opening hours. It is not possible to register before you actually move into your new home.
You will need the following documents:
- Identity card and/or passport (for identification purposes and, if applicable, to update the address)
- eID card for EU citizens (for changing the address on the chip) - if available
- Landlord’s confirmation of residence (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung) - provided by us on request
If the regular opening hours are not suitable for you, you can make an appointment for the Citizens' Office by email (buergerbuero@eching.de) or by phone at 089 / 319000-0.
Online registration of a primary residence
If you move within Germany and use your new apartment as a primary residence, you can also register digitally – completely without a visit to the Bürgerbüro. To do this, you will need an ID card with an activated online function or an eID card.
Here's how online registration works:
- Provide details about your new residence and upload the "Wohnungsgeberbestätigung".
- After verification, you can access your registration certificate (Meldebestätigung) online.
- Next, update the address on your ID card's chip.
- You will receive address stickers by mail for your ID card and, if applicable, your passport.
Electronic residence registration
Do I have to deregister my residence?
When moving out of your residence, you are obliged to deregister within two weeks unless you move into a new residence in Germany. This means that you only have to deregister if you are giving up a secondary residence without replacing it and if you are moving abroad. In the latter case, you can simply deregister using an online form.
Deregistration is possible no more than one week before moving out.
Does Eching levy a tax on secondary residences?
At present, Eching (district of Freising) does not levy a tax on secondary residences in Germany.
Good to know
- After registering your residence, you’ll receive a letter from “ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice” (yes, that’s really its name!) asking you to register your residence for the broadcasting license fee (Rundfunkbeitrag). You can easily do this online. Before you do, however, check to see if you’re eligible to apply for an exemption or a reduction!
- Failing to register a residence correctly can result in a fine of up to 1,000 EUR.
Disclaimer
This article was created with utmost care. However, we assume no liability for the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of the content.
