Ummeldung: How to Change Your Address in Germany

Moving to a new apartment within the same city? You need to update your registered address at the Bürgeramt. This process is called an Ummeldung, and it works almost identically to your original Anmeldung. Most people underestimate how many other things depend on your registered address, so getting the Ummeldung done quickly prevents problems down the line.

An “Ummeldung” (re-registration, sometimes searched as “change address Germany”) is the process of updating your official address after moving within Germany. You are required to complete it within 14 days of your move. The appointment happens at the Bürgeramt, and you will need the same core documents as for the original Anmeldung. Our Bürgeramt guide covers the full registration process in detail.

When Do You Need an Ummeldung?

You need an Ummeldung whenever you move to a new address within Germany. This includes:

• Moving to a different apartment in the same city
• Moving to a new city within Germany
• Moving from a temporary address (like a friend's place or a hotel) to a permanent apartment

If you are leaving Germany permanently, you need an “Abmeldung” (deregistration) instead. That is a separate process.

The 14-day deadline is a legal requirement. Registering late can technically result in a fine, though enforcement varies by city. In practice, many offices are understanding if you explain that appointments were fully booked. Still, book as early as possible.

What Documents Do You Need for the Ummeldung?

The documents are nearly identical to your first Anmeldung:

• Your passport or national ID card
• A completed “Anmeldeformular” (registration form) with your new address filled in
• A new “Wohnungsgeber­bestätigung” (landlord confirmation) from your new landlord

The landlord confirmation must be from your new address. Your old one will not work. Ask your new landlord for this document as soon as you sign the lease.

• “Ich ziehe um und brauche eine Wohnungsgeber­bestätigung für die Ummeldung.” - I am moving and need a landlord confirmation for the address change.

How to Book and Complete the Ummeldung

Book an appointment at any Bürgeramt in your city. You do not need to go to a specific location. In larger cities, check multiple offices for faster availability.

The appointment itself takes about 10 minutes. The clerk updates your address in the system and gives you a new “Meldebescheinigung” (registration confirmation). This is the proof that your address has been updated.

• “Ich möchte mich ummelden.” - I would like to change my registered address.
• “Hier ist meine neue Adresse.” - Here is my new address.
• “Ich bin am [Datum] umgezogen.” - I moved on [date].
• “Bekomme ich eine neue Meldebescheinigung?” - Will I receive a new registration confirmation?

If you want to practice the conversation before your appointment, try the Government Office scenario in EverydayDeutsch.

What Else Do You Need to Update After Moving?

Your Ummeldung updates the official government record, but many other organizations need your new address too. Handle these within the first few weeks after moving:

• Bank - update your address in your banking app or at a branch. Your bank may send important letters to your registered address.
• Health insurance (Krankenkasse) - notify them online or by phone
• Employer - give your HR department the new address for tax and payroll records
• GEZ / Rundfunkbeitrag - the broadcasting fee is tied to your address. Update it at rundfunkbeitrag.de.
• Internet and electricity providers - cancel or transfer your contracts

A common mistake is forgetting the Rundfunkbeitrag. If you do not update your address, you could end up paying for two households.

Ummeldung vs Anmeldung: What Is the Difference?

The “Anmeldung” is your first address registration after arriving in Germany. The “Ummeldung” is an address update when you move within Germany. Both happen at the Bürgeramt, require the same documents, and follow the same 14-day deadline. The only difference is the word you use at the counter.

• “Ich möchte mich anmelden.” - I would like to register. (first time)
• “Ich möchte mich ummelden.” - I would like to change my registration. (moving within Germany)

For everything else about the Bürgeramt, from booking appointments to what happens during your visit, check our complete Bürgeramt guide.