Registration and residence
Ausländerbehörde
Foreigners' office (immigration office)
Last updated: September 28, 2026
What does Ausländerbehörde mean?
The Ausländerbehörde (foreigners' office, often renamed Welcome Center or Landesamt für Einwanderung) is the local authority for residence matters of non-EU citizens. It issues and extends residence permits, Blue Cards and settlement permits, records job changes and decides on family reunification. Which office is responsible depends on where you are registered.
Key facts
| Responsible for | Non-EU residence titles |
| Which office | The one for your registered address |
| Other names | Welcome Center, Landesamt für Einwanderung (Berlin) |
| EU citizens | Generally do not need it |
What to do
- Find your office via your city or district website; it depends on your registered address.
- Book appointments early, usually online; waiting times can be long in big cities.
- Apply for extensions before your permit expires, even if no appointment is available yet.
- Bring the documents on its checklist; missing papers mean a second appointment.
Worth knowing
If your permit is about to expire and you cannot get an appointment, send the extension application in writing before the expiry date and keep proof. That keeps your stay legal.
Frequently asked questions
Do EU citizens need to go to the Ausländerbehörde?
Generally no. EU citizens only register their address (Anmeldung). Non-EU family members of EU citizens do need a residence card from the office.
How do I find my Ausländerbehörde?
It is the office responsible for your registered address, usually part of the city or district administration. Search your city's name plus 'Ausländerbehörde'.
Read next
Sources
More German terms: registration and residence
Plain-English explanations of the words on your letters and forms.