Incoming Students

Why do I need to register?

If you plan to stay in Germany for more than 90 days, you are legally required to register your residential address with the local authorities. This process is called “Anmeldung” and must be done within two weeks after moving into your accommodation in Hamburg.

The registration is required by German law and is essential for many important processes, such as:

• Applying for a residence permit
• Opening a bank account
• Signing up for health insurance
• Receiving official letters or parcels
• Getting your tax identification number

If your stay is shorter than 90 days, you do not need to register at the Einwohnermeldeamt. However, we still recommend checking your visa/residence regulations in case specific requirements apply.

When and where to register?

You must register within 14 days of moving into your accommodation. This is done at a Hamburg Service Point (Einwohnermeldeamt). Registration is only possible by appointment.

Appointments can be booked by phone (Mon–Fri from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the universal service hotline 115) or online via this platform:

https://driveport.de/termine/Datenschutz

→ Choose: Wohnsitzänderung → Umzug nach Hamburg aus dem Ausland melden

Tip: New appointment slots are released early every morning for the same day. So, if you only see appointments available in 2 months, don’t panic – check again early the next day.