Registration - Anmeldung 

Within two weeks after arriving in Dresden, everyone is required by law to register with the Residents’ Registration Office (Bürgeramt). The exception to this is if you are a “visitor” or enter Germany with a Schengen visa. The registration process is called “Anmeldung” and is mandatory also for Germans. Without the official registration you cannot open a bank account, apply for a residence permit or get a mobile phone contract. The International Office of the MPI-CBG can take care of your registration. To use the service you need to fill out the application form and leave your passport/ID card there. Any change of residence within the same city has to be registered with the Residents’ Registration Office again. If you move out of Germany you will have to cancel your registration in Dresden. 

Bürgeramt Dresden, Theaterstr. 11

Residence Permit 

Before your entry visa runs out, newcomers (from non-European countries) must apply for a residence permit at the Welcome Center Dresden. In order to apply you will need to get an appointment. This can be done by the International Office at the MPI-CBG or you can send an e-mail to: termin.auslaenderbehoerde@dresden.de. Visiting without an appointment during office hours may result in longer periods of waiting. 

Necessary documents:

• application form (available at the International Office or download here)
• a valid passport and copy of passport 
• biometric passport photograph
• proof of Health Insurance 
• working/stipend contract 
• copy of tenancy agreement 
• only for married people: marriage certificate and Apostille (original and translation) 
• only if accompanied by child: birth certificate of child accompanied by Apostille/Legalization
• fee  

Depending on the title you apply for you might also submit:   

• student enrolment 
• academic degrees 
• curriculum vitae 
• hosting agreement with Institute
• …       

Please consult the International Office prior to your appointment. We will help you with all paperwork, review your application before submitting, make sure that your application will not be rejected and that you apply for the most favorable title. 

Fee 

Fees are payable for most visa applications and there is a flat rate for all types, although this is reviewed regularly. Fees are payable regardless of the outcome of the visa application. 

Extension of Residence Permit 

For your residence permit extension you will receive a letter or an e-mail informing you about an appointment date and all the necessary documents. If you have not received a letter before expiry of your current residence permit or if you cannot make the appointment please inform the International Office or contact the Immigration office to get an appointment.

If you do not have all necessary documents ready by your appointment, please make the appointment anyway as documents can be submitted later on.