The excitement of moving abroad usually carries you through the initial packing stages, but the looming reality of German bureaucracy can quickly stall that momentum. Germany is famous for its love of paperwork, and since Brexit, UK citizens face a much more rigid process to secure residency. Getting your files sorted before the removal van arrives is the absolute best way to dodge unnecessary stress.
Core Personal Documents
Before you can even look at visas, your basic identity papers need to be up to date and legally recognised.
Your Passport – It must have at least 6 months of validity remaining and have been issued within the last 10 years.
Certificates and Translations – Bring your original birth and marriage certificates. German offices won’t accept English versions on their own, so you’ll need certified document translation before submitting your paperwork. They also usually require an Apostille, which is an official UK stamp confirming that the document is genuine. You can also find official guidance on legalising UK documents through GOV.UK.
If you’re unsure about the process, our Apostille & Legalisation FAQs answer many of the most common questions about document legalisation and overseas use.
Visa And Employment Paperwork
To stay in Germany for more than 90 days, you need a proper residence permit. The German Federal Foreign Office provides the latest immigration and visa requirements. Showing up with a complete file makes the appointment at the immigration office much easier.
Job Contracts – If you are relocating for work, you will need your signed employment contract showing your salary and job title.
Qualifications – Bring your original university degrees or vocational certificates. For regulated fields like healthcare or engineering, you will have to get these officially recognised by a German governing body first.
Freelance Proof – If you are working for yourself, pack a solid business plan and formal letters of intent from future German clients to prove you can support yourself.
Local Registration Paperwork
Once you arrive, your immediate priority is registering your address. You cannot open a bank account or get a tax ID without doing this first.
The Landlord’s Confirmation Form: You must register at the local citizens’ office within 14 days of moving in. A standard tenancy agreement isn’t enough; you need a specific form signed by your landlord confirming the exact day you moved in.
Health Insurance: You cannot obtain a residency permit without proof of approved health insurance. Neither standard UK travel insurance nor a GHIC card will work.
Customs And Relocation Logistics
Moving your belongings across the post-Brexit border requires careful paperwork to avoid unexpected tax bills.
Customs Form 0350 – This is the specific declaration that allows you to bring your used household goods into Germany duty-free.
Packing Inventory – You need a highly detailed list of every box in your shipment, backed by proof that you actually lived in the UK for the past year, such as recent utility bills.
For help obtaining an apostille for official documents, contact Apostille & Legalisation Services on 020 8017 2216.
