Work Permit/Residence
Permit/Registrations

Registration of Address (Anmeldung)

Any visitor to Germany who stays more than 3 months, should consider the following three areas of requirements to live and work in Germany:-

• Registration of Address (Anmeldung) is required
• Residence Permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) is required
• A German Tax Card (Lohnsteuerkarte) is required (if individual is working)
• A work permit (Arbeitserlaubnis) is not required for UK citizens (being EC member state)

These processes are mainly formalities as all EC member States have a right to live and work in a fellow EC country. On arrival in Germany, the employee and all accompanying family members will receive full support and help in arranging all registration formlities, they will be formally registered to live in Germany (Anmeldebestätigung). The Residence Permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) will then be applied for, and a tax-card requested for the employee and (if applicable) accompanying spouse.

Every time you change your residence within Germany, whether you move next door or across the country, you must report this to the registry offices at both the old and new place of residence and get another Anmeldebestätigung. This isn't an action directed at foreigners. Germans, too, must have an Anmeldebestätigung and 4keep the police posted when they move.

Residence Permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis)

If you wish to work in Germany your Aufenthaltserlaubnis must specifically state that you may do so. Initial period awarded is for 5 years, once issued this document should be kept in a safe place and will be required for various official purposes; it is proof that you're a bona fide resident of your community and you will need it for everything from registering your children in school to getting a library card.

After five years residence, most foreigners can apply for "unbefristet" (unlimited) status, meaning that no further renewals are required.

Persons living in Germany for eight, nine or ten years can apply for an Aufenthaltsberechtigung, a document establishing the right to live permanently in Germany. This is the first step toward acquiring German citizenship.