Plan overview
Check the immigration consequences of leaving, prepare your enquiry to the Ausländerbehörde, and complete deregistration in the right order.
What to do step by step
- 1
Confirm your residence permit details
Note the type of residence permit, the expiry dates of your card and passport, the basis for residence, and your planned departure and return dates.
- 2
Assess the risk of leaving for your status
Check how the duration and purpose of your absence, as well as changes to your job, studies, family, or income, may affect keeping your residence permit.
- 3
Contact the Ausländerbehörde early
If your situation is unusual or you may be away for a long time, ask for clarification before leaving and keep the response.
- 4
Complete Abmeldung when leaving permanently
Check the procedure in your city, prepare the information for deregistration, and keep your Abmeldebescheinigung.
Articles for this step
Abmeldung in Germany Before Departure: How to Deregister - 5
Keep documents and organise follow-up tasks
Keep proof of departure, correspondence with authorities, and documents related to your status and departure.
Important notes
- A status issue does not necessarily mean immediate consequences, but it is best to act early.
- Keep your Abmeldung confirmation: other organisations may need it.
Common mistakes
- Assuming Abmeldung ends all contracts
- Contacting the authority too late
