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Quick Summary
In 2015, Germany introduced a strict law to prevent registration fraud: You can no longer register an address at the Bürgeramt with just a rental contract. You now legally need a specific piece of paper signed by your landlord called the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung. Without this document, you cannot get your Anmeldung.
1. What is the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung?
The Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (literally: "Apartment Giver Confirmation") is a standardized, written document provided and signed by your landlord (Vermieter) or property manager.
It officially confirms to the government that you have actually moved into the specified apartment on a specific date.
Do I need it to deregister (move out)?
No. There is an old rumor among expats that you need this document when you leave Germany. This was briefly true in 2015, but the law was changed in November 2016. Today, you only need the confirmation when moving in (Einzugsbestätigung). You do not need your landlord's signature to deregister (Abmeldung) when leaving the country.
2. Get the Document (Free PDF Generator)
German landlords are legally obligated to provide you with this document within 14 days of you moving in. However, many private landlords (especially those renting out sublets or Airbnbs) don't have the form ready.
We built a free tool that allows you to enter your details in English and instantly downloads the perfect, official German PDF form. You can then just email it to your landlord to sign.
Generate your Form Now
Stop searching for German templates. Use our free tool to generate the exact PDF required by the Bürgeramt.
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3. What if my landlord refuses to sign?
This is a very common issue for expats who rent "temporary" or unofficial sublets from people who are traveling.
The Sublet Trap
If the main tenant refuses to give you a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung, it almost certainly means they are subletting the apartment to you illegally without the actual owner's permission. You cannot register your address there. You must find a different, legal apartment.
If a legitimate landlord simply refuses or is too lazy to sign the document, they face fines of up to €1,000 from the German state. In this rare case, you should go to your Anmeldung appointment anyway, show your rental contract, and inform the Bürgeramt that the landlord is refusing to fulfill their legal obligation. The Bürgeramt will then contact the landlord directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
About Oliver
Founder of expats.de, former cooperative bank advisor (Bankfachwirt IHK) with 12 years of banking experience, and a §34d licensed insurance broker. Since 2014, Oliver has helped over 10,000 expats navigate the German financial system. Read Oliver's full story →
Educational Notice & General Advice
This content is educational and reflects analysis based on our 11 years of market experience, our 200,000+ community insights, and current regulatory knowledge.
As a 34d-licensed insurance broker and experienced financial advisor, I provide this guidance in good faith. However, for personalized advice especially regarding insurance, mortgages, or tax-specific decisions—please consult with a qualified financial advisor or tax professional in your specific situation. Past expat experiences and historical market data do not guarantee identical results for your unique circumstances.