Register Second Residence in Germany

A secondary residence might seem like a trivial thing because it means you have a primary or main residence, but trust me, the main and secondary residence are important. Some might argue it's only for commuters and workers living in Germany, tourists and students alike. It is important because whether you are a student or a tourist or looking to get work in Germany, you are going to settle first and when you do, you need to register a residence.

If you want to register a secondary residence in Germany, however, you need to pay attention to some things. Anyone changing residence within Germany must reregister at the registry office within two weeks. Only one of the necessary persons subject to reregistration must physically appear at the registry office for couples, parents, and children (under the age of 18). Any delayed or inaccurate reregistration is considered a misdemeanor and is subject to a fine.

A primary residence is a house or home where you are most of the time, a place where there's over 70% chance of seeing you, while in a secondary residence, you are there once in a while and not every time. The following are the differences between primary and secondary residence.

Some other differences between primary and secondary residence are:

Registering a Secondary Residence

When you move into a secondary residence in Germany, it is compulsory for you to register this new residence. It doesn’t matter whether you are renting, moving out of your parent’s house, buying a new house, or buying a yacht or boat that can house you, the laws require you to register secondary residence in Germany. 

Although a secondary residence should be close to the primary residence, it is irrelevant if the second residence is outside Germany, the federal state, or the municipality.

After moving to a new residence (second residence), you need to report to the Einwohnermeldeamt (residents of registration office) or Bürgerbüro also known as the citizens’ registration office. The registration and report should be done within 14 days of moving to this new house.

You can fill the application online or book an appointment to do this at the office, or municipalities that are close to you. 

The landlord's certificate of residence or proof of residence is a legal document that supports your lease in providing that you live at their residence. It usually shows the specific address of the house and its location. 

What are the cost for registering a secondary residence?

Believe it or not, the cost of registering a secondary residence is not exorbitant. The cost of registering a secondary resident varies in different regions, but generally, registration doesn’t take up to €10. And in rare cases where it is more than €10 it usually isn't up to €15, but these are rare cases. 

The tax requirement for your secondary home depends on the region or the municipality your second residence is located. 

There's a general rule in Germany that places secondary residence tax between 5 to 35% of the annual rent of your residence. However, places like Baden-Baden which is a famous summer home in Europe charge a few cents above 35. The secondary residence tax in Berlin is also between 5 to 35% of the rent and the registration is the same.

Registering a second residence in Germany is easy and since you can apply online, it also makes it seamless. I've summarized the article in a question format for you.

Where can I register my secondary residence in Germany?

You can register your secondary residence in Einwohnermeldeamt (residents of registration office) or Bürgerbüro also known as the citizens’ registration office.

What happens if I miss my deadline?

Missing your registration deadline could lead to a 5-year jail term or a fine of over a thousand euros (€1000).

What documents do I need?

You need a passport or a valid ID card, landlord's certificate/proof of residence, and completely filled registration form.