First steps after moving: Registration, change of address & more -

The move is complete, the furniture is in place – but now the bureaucratic part begins! To ensure you don't miss any important deadlines and complete all the formalities, we've compiled the most important first steps after the move for you.

1. Register your residence at the residents’ registration office

📍 Why important?
In Germany you have to within 14 days of the move Register with the residents' registration office. If you miss this deadline, you face fines.

✅ Required documents:
✔ Identity card or passport
✔ Confirmation of occupancy (signed by the landlord)
✔ Registration form of the city administration

💡 Tip: In cities like Berlin Appointments at the Citizens’ Office are often rare – It is best to book an appointment before the move.

2. Set up a forwarding order with the post office

📦 Why important?

So that no letters or invoices are sent to the old address
Avoiding problems with banks, insurance companies or authorities

✅ Here's how:

Forwarding order at the Apply online for Deutsche Post
Validity: 6, 12 or 24 months
Costs: From 26.90 € for 12 months

💡 Tip: Use the move as an opportunity to to update your address or unsubscribe from unimportant advertising mailings or newsletters.

3. Re-register your electricity, gas & internet

🚨 Mistake: Many people forget to cancel old contracts or register new ones in a timely manner.

✅ Important steps:
✔ Note meter readings in the old and new apartment
✔ Inform electricity, gas and water providers about the move
✔ If necessary, a Compare & switch new providers
✔ Re-register your internet and telephone provider (preferably 2–4 weeks in advance)

💡 Tip: If your current Internet provider is not available at the new address, you have a Special right of termination.

4. Update vehicle registration & driver’s license address

🚗 Why important?

Anyone who does not re-register their car may have problems with the insurance company or the tax office.
In some cities, re-registration is mandatory.

✅ Documents required for vehicle re-registration:
✔ Vehicle registration document & vehicle title (registration certificate part I & II)
✔ Identity card with new address
✔ Proof of motor vehicle insurance (eVB number)

💡 Tip: If you are moving to an environmental zone, check whether you have a green environmental badge need.

5. Re-register for GEZ (broadcasting fee)

📺 Why important?

The broadcasting fee is mandatory in Germany, even after moving.
Those who do not re-register may receive reminders or double debits.

✅ Here's how:

Register online on the GEZ website
If a roommate or spouse is already paying, you can be exempted.

💡 Tip: Anyone receiving BAföG or social assistance can Apply for exemption from broadcasting fee.

6. Inform employers, banks and insurance companies

🏦 Important institutions that need your new address:
✅ Employer & Tax Office
✅ Health insurance & pension insurance
✅ Banks & credit card providers
✅ Liability, household contents and motor vehicle insurance
✅ Subscriptions (newspapers, gym, memberships)

💡 Tip: If you are self-employed or run a business, you must also Re-register your business.

7. Organize school, daycare & doctor change

👨‍👩‍👧 If you are moving with children:
✅ Discuss school changes early with the old and new schools
✅ Re-register or re-apply for a kindergarten place

🏥 If a change of doctor is necessary:
✅ Inform your family doctor and specialists about the move
✅ Research new doctors in the area

💡 Tip: If your health insurance provider is regionally limited, check whether a change is necessary.

8. Apply for garbage collection & resident parking permit

🚮 Why important?
In some cities, garbage collection must be requested or paid for separately.

✅ Check:
✔ Do you need a Resident parking permit for your new address?
✔ Does the garbage service have to be registered separately?
✔ Are there specific waste disposal regulations in the new residential area?

💡 Tip: Many cities offer a free bulky waste collectionif you still have old furniture to dispose of.

9. Deduct moving costs from your taxes

💰 Why important?
If the move professional reasons many costs can be deducted from taxes:
✅ Moving companies & transport costs
✅ Double rent payments (if necessary)
✅ Travel costs to the new place of residence
✅ Renovation costs of the old apartment

💡 Tip: Keep all invoices and receipts and submit them with your tax return.

Conclusion: Have everything under control after the move!

A move doesn't end with transporting the furniture—there are also bureaucratic formalities to be completed. With this checklist, you won't forget anything and will have a stress-free start to your new home.

🚚 Are you looking for a professional moving company for your move? Praktik Transport supports you from A to Z – contact us for a non-binding quote! 🏠✨