Abmeldung in Deutschland / Unregistration from Germany - What is that?

The Process and Required Documents for Unregistering from Germany

Initiating the process of "Abmeldung" or unregistering from Germany begins with filling out the "Abmeldung" form. This form requires basic details such as your name, current address in Germany, and the date of departure. You are also required to provide your new address if you're moving within Europe.

The next step is to submit this form at your local "Bürgeramt" (Residents' Registration Office) either in person, by mail, or through their online portal, depending on the office's facilities. It's highly recommended to do this about a week or two before your planned departure.

Along with the completed form, you'll need to present a valid identification document, such as your passport. If you're unregistering by mail or online, a photocopy of your identification should suffice. If you're doing this in person, remember to make an appointment in advance to avoid long waiting times.

Once your request is processed, you'll receive a deregistration confirmation, known as "Abmeldebescheinigung". This document is key evidence that you have officially deregistered from Germany and will be necessary for future dealings with German authorities. It is advisable to keep this document safe as losing it can lead to complications.

It is very important to forward your deregistration confirmation "Abmeldebescheinigung" to your previous local tax authority (Finanzamt) in Germany. If you miss out on this step, you might be required to keep filing tax returns in Germany and in a worst case scenario even pay additional taxes.

Benefits of Unregistering from Germany

Unregistering, or "Abmeldung", offers several benefits for those leaving Germany. One key advantage is the proper closure of your fiscal responsibilities in the country. By deregistering, you signal to the tax authorities that you no longer reside in Germany, thereby potentially avoiding unnecessary tax obligations in the future.

Another benefit is that "Abmeldung" can help you avoid needless charges from utility providers, subscription services, and insurance companies. Many of these entities require an "Abmeldebescheinigung" as proof of your departure before they can stop billing you.



Lastly, unregistering allows you to close down your official state affiliations, such as with the local community, public broadcasting services, or any other mandatory services. This ensures you are not liable for any fees associated with these services once you've left Germany.

Do I need the unregistration confirmation (Abmeldebescheinigung) from Germany for other countries?

While the "Abmeldung" or unregistration confirmation from Germany is predominantly used for future dealings with German authorities, it might also be useful when dealing with authorities in other countries. For instance, you may need to present this document to prove that you are no longer a resident in Germany and are no longer liable for certain obligations such as taxes or social insurance contributions. Therefore, it's strongly advised to keep this document safe and accessible even when you're in a different country.

For example: In some European countries like Switzerland, the authorities will sometimes ask for your German Abmeldebescheinigung when registering in the new country (Switzerland in this case). They are not really supposed to do that since it's often not a legal requirement to unregister from your old country to register (in parallel) in a new country, but they still do. Simply showing them that document will make your life easier.

Staying in Germany Post-Unregistration

Once you've completed the "Abmeldung" process, you are technically no longer a registered resident of Germany. However, this doesn't mean you must leave the country immediately. The length of your permitted stay depends largely on your nationality and the terms of your visa, if you have one.

For European Union (EU) citizens, the European Economic Area (EEA) citizens, and Swiss citizens, there are no restrictions on the length of stay in Germany post-unregistration (there is an important "but" though). You have the right to freedom of movement within the country.

For non-EU/EEA citizens, your stay will be typically determined by the validity of your visa or residence permit. If your visa is still valid after you unregister, you can usually remain in Germany until it expires. However, if you hold a residence permit tied to specific conditions like employment or study, you may need to leave as soon as those conditions are no longer met.



Remember, even after deregistration, you are still subject to the general immigration laws of Germany and the EU. Thus, overstaying your visa can lead to legal consequences. It is always recommended to consult with immigration professionals or legal advisors to understand the specific rules applicable to your situation.

Extending Your Stay in Germany after Unregistering

If you wish to extend your stay in Germany after unregistering, it's crucial to keep in mind the regulations that apply to your specific circumstance.

For EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens, you have the right to freedom of movement, meaning you could stay in Germany even after deregistration without any specific time limit. However, you would still need to immediately register again if you intend to stay in Germany for more than 90 days and at the latest after those 90 days.

Tax-wise, if you remain in Germany in spite of unregistering your tax liability will remain until you actually leave Germany for a good or at least for quite a while. If you ever return to Germany for more than 183 days, you will further be considered a resident for tax purposes, which can have implications on your fiscal responsibilities.

For non-EU/EEA citizens, the process involves much more stringent regulations. Your ability to stay in Germany after deregistration is primarily determined by the terms of your visa or residence permit. If you want to extend your stay beyond the validity of your current visa, you'll likely need to apply for a visa extension or a different type of visa that aligns with your purpose of stay.

In either case, it's prudent to consult with immigration professionals or legal advisors to ensure you fully understand the implications of extending your stay. They can provide you with guidance on your rights, responsibilities, and the necessary steps you must take to stay in Germany legally.

Remember, failure to comply with the German immigration laws can lead to legal consequences, so always ensure you adhere to the appropriate processes and regulations.

Returning to Germany after Unregistering from Germany

Returning to Germany after unregistering your residency can present different scenarios based on your nationality and intention of stay.

For EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals, you continue to enjoy freedom of movement. This means you can stay in Germany without any specific time limit. However, if you intend to stay beyond 90 days, you need to register your residency again within or latest after those 90 days. This will typically also make you a tax resident of Germany even when you leave Germany again in less than 183 days.

Don't get yourself confused: People all over the internet will often claim that you did not have to pay taxes in Germany if you stay less than 183 days per year in Germany. This is not true in many cases!

If you are from a non-EU/EEA country, your stay upon return will be dictated by the terms of your visa. If you enter Germany on a tourist visa, for example, this typically allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you wish to stay longer, you'll need to apply for a different type of visa or a residence permit.

In terms of tax, if you return and stay in Germany for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you'll definitely be considered a resident for tax purposes. But in some cases, tax liability will already arise after less than 183 days. This requires you to pay taxes on your worldwide income in Germany.

It is always wise to consult with legal professionals or immigration and tax advisors to get accurate information specific to your situation. Remember, overstaying your visa or not registering your residency when required can lead to legal consequences.

Resources and Tips for Staying in Germany Post-Unregistration

Navigating the post-deregistration period in Germany can be challenging. To help you stay informed and organized, here are some useful resources and tips:

1. Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF): The BAMF has extensive information on various aspects of living in Germany, including visa requirements and extensions. You can check their official website.
2. Local Foreigners' Registration Offices (Ausländerbehörde): Visit your local Ausländerbehörde for personal advice and guidance on your specific situation. They can provide information about visa extensions and other permissions you might need to stay in Germany.
3. German Missions Abroad: If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen and need to apply for a new visa, you might need to do this from your home country. The website of the German Missions Abroad offers information on different visa categories and application procedures.
4. Legal Consultation: Consider seeking advice from a legal professional who specializes in immigration law. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
5. Stay Informed and Updated: Immigration rules can change frequently. Regularly check official government websites and subscribe to official newsletters for the latest updates.
6. Plan Ahead: If you intend to stay in Germany after deregistration, ensure you plan well in advance. This includes understanding your visa requirements, arranging for accommodation, and being aware of your tax obligations.

Remember, while these resources are meant to guide you, they do not replace official legal advice. Always consult with a professional if you are unsure about your situation.