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🇩🇪Germany

Wohnsitz-Abmeldung

Residence De-registration

Easy~5 minMovingAddressDe-registration

/ What is this form?

If you leave Germany permanently, you must de-register your address at the Bürgeramt (Abmeldung). This can be done up to 1 week before departure or up to 2 weeks after leaving. Many Bürgerämter accept postal applications, so you don't necessarily need to go in person.

If you move within Germany (to a different city or address), you do NOT submit an Abmeldung — you only submit a new Anmeldung at the new address, which automatically cancels the previous registration.

Failure to de-register when leaving Germany can lead to continued tax obligations and problems with health insurance, as German authorities will assume you are still a resident.

/ Who needs this form?

  • Anyone moving abroad permanently
  • German citizens emigrating to another country
  • Expats returning to their home country
  • NOT needed for moves within Germany

/ What you need before you start

Personal ID or passport
New foreign address
Completed Abmeldung form (available at Bürgeramt or online)

/ Step-by-step guide

1Complete the Abmeldung Form
Fill in the Abmeldung form with your current registered address, departure date, and new foreign address.
2Submit to Bürgeramt
Submit in person, by post, or online (where available). Can be done from 1 week before to 2 weeks after departure.
3Receive Abmeldebestätigung
You will receive a confirmation (Abmeldebestätigung) — keep this for your records.
4Inform Other Authorities
Notify your bank, employer, health insurer, and any other relevant parties of your departure and new address.

/ Key fields explained

FieldWhat to enterCommon mistake
AuszugsdatumThe date you are leaving Germany — can be up to 1 week in the future.Using the date of apartment handover instead of the actual date of departure from Germany.

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not de-registering when leaving Germany — this causes ongoing tax and insurance complications.
Trying to de-register for a move within Germany — this is handled automatically by the new Anmeldung.
Not keeping the Abmeldebestätigung — you may need it to prove residency status.

/ Frequently asked questions

Can I do it by mail?

Yes. Most Bürgerämter accept postal applications. Download the form, complete it, and send it with a copy of your ID to the Bürgeramt where you are currently registered.