If you have just landed in Germany and someone has mentioned to you the word AnmeldungIt's not a curse in German, don't worry, it's not a curse in German.
It's only the first big boss you have to beat in the video game of life in Germany. Let's break it all down so you don't panic and complete this mission successfully.
What is Anmeldung and why is it important?
The Anmeldung is the official registration of your address in Germany. Without this, you basically do not exist for the system.
You need it to work, to open a bank account, to sign a phone contract and even to get internet (because living without WiFi is unthinkable, of course).
Please note that after you have done your anmeldung, approximately one week later, you will receive your tax ID number, which you will be asked for in order to be able to start working.
Step by step how to make the Anmeldung
1. Find a place to live
This sounds obvious, but without an address there is no Anmeldung. It can be a rented flat, a WG (flat sharing) or even a friend's sofa (if the landlord allows it).
Here is the complete guide to finding accommodation in Germany.
2. Ask for the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung
It sounds complicated, but it's just a letter that the person renting from you must give you confirming that you live at that address.
You can download it HERE
3. Find the registration office (Bürgeramt)
Each city has several offices, but some are more saturated than others. Search the internet for the one closest to you, and make an appointment in advancewithout an appointment you can wait for ages (depending on the city).
Some useful links to make an appointment in the main cities:
4. Gather the necessary documents
Passport
Anmeldung Form (you can download it from the website of the Bürgeramt that we left you above)
Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (the form in point 2)
In some cases, rental contract (just in case, take it with you).
5. Go to your appointment and register
Arrive early, bring all your papers and avoid a possible "nein" if something is missing.
The official will give you a piece of paper called Meldebescheinigung (that's your ANMELDUNG!)Keep it like gold, you'll need it for everything.
Extra tips
If you don't find an appointment quickly, check the website every day, sometimes spaces become available (especially early in the morning).
Some employees may speak English, but don't count on it. Learn some basic German phrases that will help you with this process:
"Ich brauche Hilfe mit der Anmeldung."
(I need help with registration.)"Ich möchte mich anmelden."
(I want to register.)"Ich habe meine Dokumente dabei."
(I have my documents with me.)"Könnten Sie das bitte auf Englisch erklären?"
(Could you explain in English, please?)- "Ich bin neu in Deutschland".
(I am new in Germany.)
In some cities you can do the Anmeldung without an appointment, but be prepared to wait a long time.
Mission accomplished!
With your Anmeldung in hand, you are already one step closer to being a functional citizen in Germany. Now you can open your bank account, sign up for insurance and start receiving lots of letters that most of the time, you won't understand.
Viel Erfolg (good luck)! 
Other articles that may be of interest to you:
- How to join a German public insurance?-> Learn step by step how to get your krankenkasse and social security number!
- Complete guide to finding accommodation in Germany -> Know where to look, read recommendations and find out about possible scams.
- 10 essential applications for living in Germany -> Download the apps you need to make your life in Germany easier!
