The German word "Anmeldung" literally translates to "registration" in English. It commonly refers to the process registering your home address. The Anmeldung process can be done at any Bürgeramt in the city. On Berlin.de, the process is called “Anmeldung einer Wohnung”. This is also where you can book your appointments.
It’s worth keeping in mind that the uncapitalized version of “anmeldung” is used in many other situations as well, such as registering at a university or signing up at a website.
When you register your address, you receive a document called Anmeldebestätigung. This is your certificate of registration. Aside from your passport, your Anmeldebestätigung is the most important document that you will have in Germany.
You will need your registration certificate in order to open a bank account in Germany, sign up for health insurance, buy a SIM card, and any other agreement that requires a contract. Normal activities become very difficult without an Anmeldebestätigung (or a Meldebescheinigung).
If this is the first time you’re registering your address in Germany, you'll also be able to get your Steueridentifikationsnummer in the same appointment. This is also called a Steuer-ID, which is your individual tax number. You will need to provide this to your employer when you get a job and start employment.
You may also be asked about your religion during the Anmeldung process, for Kirchensteuer (church tax) purposes.
As a general rule, anyone intending to stay in Germany for longer than three months must get an Anmeldung within 14 days of arrival. This also means that you will officially become a resident of Germany. It is a compulsory legal requirement for all residents to anmelden (register).
There are some exceptions, such as:
The official rule is to register within 14 days from the date of arrival, with possible fines of up to 1000€. However, this is rarely enforced in practice. Finding a flat takes time and Bürgeramt appointments are often booked out, so it's unlikely that you'll have a problem with registering a little late, unless the delay was intentional.
The Anmeldung process can be done at any Bürgeramt in the city. If successful, you will be provided with an Anmeldebestätigung (registration certificate).
Here's how to register in Berlin:
The process is similar in most cities around Germany. The correct instructions and forms for your city on the city's website, such as Berlin.de. The Anmeldung process and appointment are free of charge.
A more in-depth guide for getting your Anmeldung is coming soon.
You can register at any Bürgeramt location in your city. You do not have to go to your local office. Booking in advance is advised and can be done on your city’s website. For example, people who live in Berlin can find appointments on Berlin.de. The type of appointment is called “Anmeldung einer Wohnung".
In practice, they are very similar. “Anmeldung" refers to the first address registration process, while "Ummeldung" refers to registering a change of address after you move. The appointment type ("Anmeldung einer Wohnung") and the actual process is identical.
The literal translation for the German word "Anmeldung" in English is "registration. Typically, this refers to registering your home address. Using the word "anmeldung" without capitalization refers to registration of any kind, such signing up for a website or registering for university.
You will need to bring a valid form of ID and fill out the forms "Anmeldung bei einer Meldebehörde" (registration form) and "Wohnungsgeberbestätigung" (proof that you've moved in). If you are married, you may also need to bring your marriage certificate.