Do I need an Anmeldung to extend my residence permit?

In practice, yes: the Ausländerbehörde typically asks for a current Meldebescheinigung when you apply to extend your residence permit. The application rule in the Residence Act (§ 81 AufenthG) does not list the Anmeldung as a condition, but registering is a separate legal duty anyway: you must register with the Meldebehörde (Bürgeramt) within two weeks of moving into a flat (§ 17 (1) BMG).

#Why it matters

• Which Ausländerbehörde is responsible for you depends on where you live.
• The Meldebescheinigung is the usual proof of your address.
• When you move, the same two-week deadline applies to registering at your new address.

#Don't miss the deadline

Apply for the extension before your current permit expires. If you do, your permit is deemed to continue until the decision and you receive a Fiktionsbescheinigung (§ 81 (4)–(5) AufenthG). A late application does not have this effect automatically — the authority may grant it only at its discretion to avoid undue hardship. This rule does not apply to Schengen visas.

#Can't get an Anmeldung appointment?

Don't delay the extension because of it. Apply in time, document your attempts to register (e.g. appointment confirmation) and tell the Ausländerbehörde. The local office decides what it accepts.

#Documents usually required (check your local list)

• Passport and biometric photo
• Meldebescheinigung
• Proof of enrolment (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung)
• Proof of funds (reference for students: 992 € per month for 2026)
• Proof of health insurance
• Fee: according to the authority's fee schedule — ask your Ausländerbehörde for the current amount.

Funding: Sperrkonto 2026 · Source: § 17 BMG · § 81 AufenthG