Glossary
Key terms for emigrating
Anmeldung (Address Registration)
The mandatory address registration at the BĂĽrgeramt within 14 days of moving. Without Anmeldung you cannot open a bank account, sign an employment contract or pay taxes in Germany.
Aufenthaltstitel (Residence Permit)
The residence permit for non-EU citizens. EU citizens do not need to apply for an Aufenthaltstitel, but must register via the Anmeldung.
Ausländerbehörde (Immigration Office)
The immigration office for non-EU citizens. EU citizens do not need to visit but can go there for questions about residence rights and FreizĂĽgigkeitsbescheinigung.
BĂĽrgeramt (Citizens Office)
The citizens office where you register your address, request identity documents and handle other administrative matters. Always make an appointment — without a Termin you will not be served.
Finanzamt (Tax Office)
The local tax office. Here you register as a taxpayer, file your Steuererklärung (tax return) and handle all fiscal matters. Much can be done online via ELSTER.
Gewerbeanmeldung (Business Registration)
The mandatory registration of your business at the Gewerbeamt. Costs ~€20-60 and gives you a Gewerbeschein. Freiberufler (liberal professions) do not need to do this.
Kaution (Rental Deposit)
The German rental deposit, maximum 3 months basic rent. Placed in a separate Kautionskonto. The landlord must keep this in a separate account.
Kindergeld (Child Benefit)
German child benefit: €250/month per child. Apply at the Familienkasse. As an EU citizen in Germany you are also entitled to this if you work or live there.
Krankenversicherung (Health Insurance)
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Choose between gesetzliche (public: TK, AOK, Barmer) or private Krankenversicherung. Employees earning under ~€69,300/year must be publicly insured.
Lohnsteuer (Wage Tax)
The German wage tax, directly withheld from your salary by your employer. Your Steuerklasse (tax class) determines how much is withheld. Class I for singles, III/V for married couples.
Meldebescheinigung (Registration Certificate)
Proof of your Anmeldung. You need this document for almost everything: bank account, tax number, health insurance, employment contract. Keep it safe!
Nebenkostenabrechnung (Utility Bill Statement)
The annual settlement of additional costs (water, heating, waste, etc.) on top of your basic rent. Can result in an additional payment or refund.
Rundfunkbeitrag (Broadcasting Fee)
The mandatory broadcasting fee of €18.36/month per household. Everyone with a registered address must pay, regardless of whether you watch TV or listen to radio.
Schufa (Credit Score Agency)
The German credit information agency. Your Schufa score determines whether you get a rental apartment, can get a phone contract or a loan. Build your score by opening a German bank account and paying bills on time.
Steuer-ID (Tax Identification Number)
Your personal tax identification number, automatically assigned after your Anmeldung. Your employer needs this number. It arrives by mail — takes 2-4 weeks.
Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (Landlord Confirmation)
A confirmation from your landlord that you live at the address. This document is required for your Anmeldung. Your landlord is legally required to provide it within 2 weeks.