Top content

Universität Osnabrück | Jeanette Dietl | www.foto-und-mehr.de

Register with the authorities

Registration at your new place of residence

Both foreigners and Germans have to register at their new place of residence. For this, EU citizens have to visit the Registration Office ("Meldeamt" or "Bürgeramt") and Non-EU citizens the Foreigners' Office ("Ausländerbehörde") at your place of residence in Germany. For the registration in the city of Osnabrück an appointment with the Foreigners' Office or Registraion Office is necessary.

Residence permit

Various factors determine whether or not you will need a residence permit.
EU citizens do not require a residence permit. For other foreigners, the length of stay determines whether a residence permit is required. If you intend to remain in Germany for less than three months, your visa normally also acts as your residence authorization. If you wish to stay for longer than three months and if your visa does not cover the whole duration of your stay, you will have to apply for a residence permit.
This also applies to citizens from countries where no visa is required to enter Germany.

Documents required

The documents required to apply for a residence permit depend on various circumstances. However, you will definitely require the following:

• a passport
• a recent passport-sized biometrical photo
• evidence that you can finance your stay (proof of earnings, scholarship confirmation, evidence of funding)
• proof of health insurance
• employment contract or proof that you will be working at the University as a visiting scholar

You may need additional documents. Please inquire at the Ausländerbehörde.

More information

Overview on potential residence permits (provided by HRK)