Registration and residence
Bürgeramt
Citizens' office
Last updated: September 28, 2026
What does Bürgeramt mean?
The Bürgeramt (also Bürgerbüro or Einwohnermeldeamt) is the local citizens' office. It handles your Anmeldung and Abmeldung, issues registration certificates, and processes ID cards and passports for German citizens. It does not issue residence permits: that is the Ausländerbehörde. In large cities you need an appointment, often booked online.
Key facts
| Handles | Anmeldung, Abmeldung, certificates, German ID documents |
| Does not handle | Residence permits (Ausländerbehörde) |
| Other names | Bürgerbüro, Einwohnermeldeamt, Kundenzentrum |
| Appointments | Usually required in large cities |
What to do
- Book an appointment online; in Berlin and Munich check for newly released slots early in the morning.
- In many cities you can go to any Bürgeramt, not only the one in your district.
- Bring your passport and the documents listed for your request.
- Some services, like the Abmeldung, also work by post.
Worth knowing
Cannot get an appointment within the 2-week Anmeldung deadline? Book the earliest one and keep proof of booking; most offices accept that as a good-faith effort.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bürgeramt the same as the Ausländerbehörde?
No. The Bürgeramt handles address registration and German ID documents; residence permits for non-EU citizens are handled by the Ausländerbehörde.
Can I go to any Bürgeramt in my city?
In many cities, including Berlin, yes. In others you must use the office for your district. Check your city's website.
Read next
Sources
More German terms: registration and residence
Plain-English explanations of the words on your letters and forms.