Once you have moved into your new housing in Konstanz, you are required by law to register with the municipality within two weeks if you stay for more than three months. Even international researchers are required to register.
Simply visit your local registration office; in Konstanz, this is its Bürgerbüro (citizens services). Registration is free and you will need to take the following documents along:
- a completed and signed registration form
- proof of identity for all individuals being registered (personal ID, passport)
- a completed and signed note from your landlord/lady confirming your rental status (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)
You will receive proof of registration (“Meldebescheinigung”) from the municipality.
Please note: If you change housing during your stay, you will need to register again with the local registration office responsible for your new location. Before you leave Germany, you will need to de-register with the Bürgerbüro (citizens services).
ARD, ZDF Deutschlandradio broadcasting fee
In Germany, you will need to pay a statutory broadcasting fee for public broadcasting since this is the primary source of funding for public radio and television. The broadcasting fee for public broadcasting institutions is collected by the ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice. The broadcasting fee is the same flat rate per household, regardless of the devices used. The monthly rate per apartment is currently 17.50 euros (as of February 2016). Further information is available on the broadcasting fee page.