Which document unlocks what

Your ID for every office visit.

Without it, you can’t get

Registered address, Registration certificate, Tax ID, Residence permit, German bank account, Salary taxed in your normal tax class

Wohnungsgeberbestätigung

Your landlord confirms in writing that you moved in.

Without it, you can’t get

Registered address, Registration certificate, Tax ID, Residence permit, Salary taxed in your normal tax class

Form explained →

A biometric photo, sent digitally to the office. Paper photos are no longer accepted.

Without it, you can’t get

Residence permit

Krankenversicherung

Compulsory from your first day in Germany.

Without it, you can’t get

Residence permit

Sperrkonto

Students show they can pay their living costs, usually with a blocked account.

Without it, you can’t get

Residence permit

Student budget calculator →

For the EU Blue Card: a job offer for at least 6 months with the minimum salary, and a recognised or comparable degree.

Without it, you can’t get

Residence permit

Blue Card checker →

Anmeldung

You register your address within 14 days of moving in.

Needs

• RequiredPassport (and visa, if you need one): You need an ID document to register. Source
• RequiredLandlord confirmation: Without the landlord confirmation you cannot register. If your landlord refuses, tell the registration office straight away. Source

Without it, you can’t get

Registration certificate, Tax ID, Residence permit, Salary taxed in your normal tax class

Form with filled samples →

Meldebestätigung

The confirmation you get when you register. Free.

Needs

• RequiredRegistered address: You get it when you register. Source

Steuerliche Identifikationsnummer

Sent to you by post after your first registration in Germany.

Needs

• RequiredRegistered address: The Federal Central Tax Office sends it by post after your first registration. Source

Without it, you can’t get

Salary taxed in your normal tax class

Aufenthaltstitel

Issued by the foreigners’ office responsible for where you live.

Needs

• RequiredRegistered address: The foreigners’ office responsible for your registered address handles your permit (Ulm: only for people living in Ulm). Source
• RequiredPassport (and visa, if you need one): The permit is issued for your passport. Source
• RequiredDigital photo code: Since 1 May 2025 only digital photos are accepted. Source
• RequiredHealth insurance: Health insurance is a requirement for the residence permit. Source
• RequiredProof of money (e.g. blocked account): Students must show their living costs are covered. Source
• RequiredJob offer (6+ months) and recognised degree: Blue Card: job offer of at least 6 months, minimum salary, recognised degree. Source

For rent, salary and contracts. Everyone legally in the EU has a right to a basic account.

Needs

• RequiredPassport (and visa, if you need one): Banks need to check your identity. Source
• Usually askedRegistration certificate: Many banks ask for it, but it is not a legal requirement: everyone legally in the EU, even without a fixed address, has a right to a basic account. Source

Your employer needs your tax ID to apply your tax class.

Needs

• RequiredTax ID: Without your tax ID your employer must use tax class VI (the highest deductions). If the delay is not your fault, the employer may estimate your normal class for up to 3 months first. Source