Authority Guide
Orientation in the German administrative system – together we will find the way
The German administrative system is complex – many people feel this way, not just those who are new here. Here you will find explanations of important documents, addresses, and the possibility of being accompanied to appointments.
Important documents explained
These documents are particularly important for your life in Germany
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Residence Permit
The residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis, Niederlassungserlaubnis) shows that you are allowed to live legally in Germany. It is issued by the Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde).
⚠️ Renew in good time!
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Registration Certificate
Confirms your residential address. You must register with the residents‘ registration office within 2 weeks after moving.
📍 Town Hall Lappersdorf
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Health Insurance Card
With this card, you can go to the doctor. You receive it from your health insurance company if you are insured.
💡 Always take it with you to the doctor!
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Work Permit
It states in your residence permit whether and how much you are allowed to work. The Immigration Office or the Jobcenter can help with questions.
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Bank Account
You need a checking account for salary, rent, and social benefits. Sparkassen and Volksbanken offer basic accounts.
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Social Security Card
Contains your social security number. You need it for every job. You receive it automatically from the pension insurance.
We accompany you
Authority appointments can be stressful, especially when the language is still difficult. Our volunteer helpers are happy to accompany you!
- Immigration Office (Ausländerbehörde): Residence permits, renewals
- Jobcenter: Applications, notices, measures
- Social Welfare Office (Sozialamt): Benefits, housing allowance
- Doctor visits: Translation help
- School registration: For your children
Important Addresses
The most important contact points in the region
Ausländerbehörde Regensburg
📍 Altmühlstraße 3, 93059 Regensburg
📞 0941 4009-0
🕐 Mon-Fri 8:00-12:00, Thu 14:00-16:00
⚠️ Appointment required!
Jobcenter Regensburg
📍 Landshuter Str. 4, 93047 Regensburg
📞 0941 7809-0
🕐 Mon-Fri 8:00-12:30
💡 Job placement & benefits
Rathaus Lappersdorf
📍 Rathausplatz 1, 93138 Lappersdorf
📞 0941 82850-0
🕐 Mon-Fri 8:00-12:00, Thu 14:00-18:00
💡 Registration, IDs, general questions
Migrationsberatung Caritas
📍 Von-der-Tann-Str. 7, 93047 Regensburg
📞 0941 5021-0
🕐 By appointment
💡 Free counseling in many languages
Tips for authority appointments
- Make an appointment: Many authorities only work by appointment. Call beforehand or book online.
- Be on time: Arrive 10 minutes early. If you are late, the appointment may be canceled.
- Bring all documents: Passport, residence permit, registration certificate, and all requested documents.
- Make copies: Never hand over originals without keeping a copy.
- Keep notices: All letters from authorities are important – keep them safe!
- Observe deadlines: Respond to letters within the stated deadline.
Do you need support?
Our volunteer helpers are happy to accompany you to authority appointments and help with filling out forms.