The landlord's confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung under Section 19 of the Federal Registration Act) is an essential document without which you cannot register your address (Anmeldung) in Germany. The registration office does not accept a tenancy agreement on its own.

Who counts as the Wohnungsgeber

The person providing the accommodation is the owner of the flat, the appointed property manager (Hausverwaltung) or the main tenant (Hauptmieter) when a room is sublet. They must confirm the move-in within two weeks of the tenant moving in.

Required details under Section 19 BMG

The confirmation states the name and address of the person providing the accommodation, the move-in date, the address of the flat and the names of everyone moving in. In apartment buildings, an exact description of where the flat is located helps.

Heavy fines for fake registrations

German law takes registrations without actual residence very seriously. Anyone who issues a confirmation without a real move-in risks a fine of up to €50,000. A tenant who fails to register on time or gives false information risks a fine of up to €1,000.

What to do if the confirmation is refused or delayed

If the landlord delays the confirmation or refuses to sign it, you must inform the registration office. The office will then deal with the landlord; keep proof of your notification.

What to check

  • Ask for the signed Wohnungsgeberbestätigung on the day you receive the keys.
  • Check that every family member's name is spelled exactly as in their passport.
  • Make sure the exact location of the flat in the building is stated.
  • Bring the original and your passports to your appointment at the Bürgeramt.

Example situation

A family receives the signed form from the property manager on the day of the handover and registers at the local Bürgeramt the same day.

Next step

You cannot register without the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung; insist on having it signed when you move in.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.