The "AllAboutBerlin" guide to deregistration describes important steps when leaving Germany

The article on deregistering your residence from AllAboutBerlin clearly explains how deregistering your residence in Berlin works and what practical steps are required at the citizens' registration office. Deregistration is of great importance for foreign nationals. Giving up your residence is not just an organizational measure, but a mandatory legal obligation under the Federal Registration Act (see Section 17 BMG ). At the same time, it can have direct consequences for the validity of a residence permit, especially when moving abroad.

Expiry of residence permit due to deregistration

The Federal Registration Act (Bundesmeldegesetz) requires anyone who permanently abandons their residence in Germany to deregister within two weeks. The article by AllAboutBerlin correctly points out that this applies particularly when leaving Germany or when one of several residences ceases to exist . For foreign residents of Germany, however, this process is not a mere administrative step, but rather a step with implications for their residency status. Immigration authorities regularly interpret deregistration as an indication of a permanent departure . In conjunction with actual departure, this can lead to the automatic expiration of a residence permit , because the Residence Act (AufenthG) links the continued validity of the permit to the existence of a continued habitual residence in Germany (see Section 51 Paragraph 1 No. 1 AufenthG ). Therefore, anyone who deregisters and subsequently remains abroad permanently can lose their residence permit without the need for a separate administrative act.

Deregistration of residence and departure from Germany

At the same time, deregistration must be carried out when actually moving away, as otherwise a number of administrative difficulties will arise. Without formal deregistration, contracts continue, broadcasting fees and insurance premiums continue to be collected, and German authorities will continue to assume that you are a resident of Germany. The registration office can also impose a fine under the Administrative Offenses Act (OWiG) .

For international professionals, this often leads to subsequent payment obligations, debt collection proceedings, or problems with banks, health insurance companies , and tax authorities. It becomes further problematic under immigration law if those affected later return to Germany and apply for an extension or renewal of their residence permit: Without clear documentation of their departure and return, the immigration authorities regularly ask critical questions about their actual center of life. Furthermore, the reissuance of a residence permit is frequently refused if the residence is still registered in the Central Register of Foreigners (AZR) with the old residence permit .

Conclusion of the AllAboutBerlin article and unsubscription

The AllAboutBerlin article explains the various ways to deregister – by email, post, or in person at the citizens' registration office – in a clear and practical manner. However, from a legal perspective, VISAGUARD.Berlin emphasizes that deregistration must always be considered in the context of one's individual residency status. While it is mandatory for permanent relocation, deregistration can trigger immigration-related risks for temporary absences.