How to Deregister from Germany: All You Need to Know

To deregister, you must notify the local Einwohnermeldeamt (local registration office) or Bürgeramt (local citizens’ office) in your city or town. The process is typically free, and you must complete it within two weeks of leaving Germany. You will need:

• Completed deregistration form (Abmeldung bei der Meldebehörde)
• Your identity card or passport
• Proof of departure (e.g., flight ticket, contract termination, etc. – not always required)
• Sometimes, confirmation from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)

You can:

• Visit your Bürgeramt (local citizens’ office) in person
• Submit the form by post
• Use our smart online service for a hassle-free online deregistration process

After processing, you will receive a deregistration confirmation document (Abmeldebestätigung), which is essential for many post-departure tasks like canceling insurance, closing contracts, or applying for a pension refund.

There is no fixed fine, as the circumstances are always different, but on average, the fines can go up to €1,000, depending on the city and the severity of the delay. While this does not guarantee exemption from penalties, none of ExitDE’s customers have ever been fined to date. Our service ensures that your deregistration is handled correctly and on time, significantly reducing the risk of any legal issues.

However, the real issues are bureaucratic and legal complications, like:

• Being taxed as a resident despite living abroad
• Problems terminating rental or utility agreements
• Continued obligation to pay German health insurance
• Continued obligation to pay German health insurance

In Germany, residency is tied to your registered address. When you submit your Abmeldung, you are officially canceling your residency. If you are a non-EU citizen, you should also:

• Inform the Immigration Office: If you have a temporary or permanent residence permit, notify the Ausländerbehörde of your departure. Provide your deregistration certificate and residence permit details.
• Return: your residence permit if you are not planning to return
• Update Other Authorities: Notify other relevant authorities, such as your health insurance provider, pension office, or employer, to terminate your contracts.

ExitDE simplifies this process by managing your entire deregistration remotely. We ensure you have all the required documents, handle the bureaucracy, and make sure you stay compliant, so you don’t have to worry about missing steps.

No, it is not mandatory to close your bank account. Many expats keep their German accounts active for:

• Receiving final salary payments
• Paying final bills or tax obligations
• Receiving tax or pension refunds

Some banks, however, may require a German address or proof of residency. Always inform your bank of your new contact details.

Before leaving Germany, complete these essential steps:

• Deregister Your German Address: Follow the Abmeldung process outlined above.
• Notify the Immigration Office: If you hold a residence permit, inform the Ausländerbehörde.
• Cancel Contracts: Use the deregistration confirmation immediately to terminate utilities (electricity, gas, internet), phone contracts, and subscriptions (e.g., gym memberships and GEZ broadcasting fees).
• Check Taxes: File your final tax return with the Finanzamt (tax office) and pay any unpaid taxes.
• Close or Update Bank Accounts: Decide whether to close your accounts or update your details.
• Inform Insurance Providers: Cancel your health insurance and other policies (e.g., liability, car insurance).
• Notify Your Employer: If employed, provide notice and request a final payslip and employment certificate.
• Arrange Mail Forwarding: Set up a Nachsendeantrag with Deutsche Post to forward mail to your new address or a friend’s address in Germany.

Some banks, however, may require a German address or proof of residency. Always inform your bank of your new contact details.