Meldebehörde

A Meldebehörde is the local public authority responsible for the registration of residents and the administration of the population register in German-speaking countries. It is typically part of the municipal administration, often located in the city hall or a Bürgeramt, and is the official body that handles the entry, update and, if necessary, removal of personal data related to residence.

The main tasks of the Meldebehörde include registration of new residents after moving to a city or town (Anmeldung), deregistration when leaving, and changes of address or personal data such as name or status. It also issues official documents related to residence, such as a Meldebescheinigung (proof of registration) or a Wohnsitzbestätigung, and collects information required for the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation) in jurisdictions where it is needed. The authority maintains the Einwohnermelderegister, a central registry of residents, which is used by other public agencies for administrative purposes.

The operations of the Meldebehörde are grounded in national and regional law. In Germany, for example, the Bundesmeldegesetz (BMG) regulates the registration obligation, deadlines (typically within 14 days of moving), and the handling and use of resident data. Similar legal frameworks exist in Austria and Switzerland, with variations by federal state or canton. Data kept by the Meldebehörde may be shared with other authorities under statutory provisions, while strict data protection rules govern access, correction, and deletion of personal information on request.

The Meldebehörde plays a fundamental role in civic life, enabling access to services, voting eligibility, taxation, social security, and other administrative processes. It is distinct from but closely linked to other civil and administrative authorities in the public sector.