Step-by-Step: How to register yourself in Germany

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1. Wohnanmeldung

All residents need to register with local authorities (Einwohnermeldeamt) when they first arrive.  When you register, you receive a Meldebescheinigung.  This document is important, because you'll need it to open an account at a bank, purchase a mobile phone, register as a student or employee, or to get your residence permit.  For information on Goettingen's office, see this link (although it's only in German).

Make sure you bring the following documents:
1. Official signed rental contract
2. Passport

Local Residents' Registration Office Göttingen
New Town Hall
Hiroshimaplatz 1-4
Phone.: 0551 400-4044

Hours:
Mon, Tue: 8.00 - 15.00
Wed, Fri: 8.00 - 12.00
Thu: 8.00 - 18.30


2. Aufenthhaltserlaubnis

So, if you are from any country outside of Germany (and EU member states), you must apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) within three months of arrival.  If you are here to study or work at the university, here are the documents you need to bring:
  • A completed “Antrag auf Erteilung bzw. Verlängerung eines Aufenthaltstitels” form (careful!  every German city has their own form - this link is for the Goettingen form)
  • A passport
  • A valid student visa, if you're from a country that requires one
  • 1 passport photo
  • Proof of enrollment or a work contract from the university
  • Proof of health insurance
  • Confirmation of registration of your local address (Anmeldebestätigung).
  • The required fee, up to EUR 100 depending on length, and EUR 15-30 for extensions.
  • Proof of financial support or at least minimum adequate resources (Finanzierungsnachweis). The legal minimum rises each year but is currently around EUR 7000 per year. Forms of proof include:
    1. Proof of a fellowship or scholarship award recognized by the German authorities
    2. A bank statement from a savings account indicating that you have funds in the amount of one year’s financial support (8,400 EUR per year)
    3. Presentation of a commitment to pay (Verpflichtungserklärung)
Creepy, but German Auslaenderbehoerde (foreign offices) actually do look like this:

Photo source:  http://www.luebeck-teatime.de/?rubrik=18&artikel=13696


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