I would like to move to a different city within the same state. Is it possible with a 104c?

Question

At the moment, I live in a city that is heavily dominated by students. Since I am not a student myself, it doesn’t make sense for me to live in this flashy, expensive city. I would like to move to another industrial city, where there are opportunities for full-time work and the possibility of pursuing a part-time university degree. Living cost of that city is also significantly cheaper. In my current city, winning the lotto has higher probability than finding an apartment, let alone a suitable one.

Now, I am not sure if the authorities will allow to change my location from City A to City B.

Do I need their written permission, or can I simply change my address and register in the new city?

Answer 1

Hi @helios

If you are receiving state benefits from the Jobcenter, then you are not allowed to move. You can only move if you are able to support yourself financially or you find a job in another place that will cover your costs. In that case, you make a written application with the Ausländerbehörde where you are now living. The Ausländerbehörde of the place you wish to move is also involved and so unfortunately this process can take some time. The application is called ‘Antrag auf Aufhebung der Wohnsitzauflage’. Here is a form you can use to do this:

https://***.fluechtlingsrat-lsa.de/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Wohnsitzauflage.pdf

Please note that although the general rule on 104c is to include an obligation to live in a certain place, each federal state can issue specific instructions on it. To my knowledge, Saxony is the only state that has said that people with 104c should in general not be given this obligation ‘Wohnsitzauflage’.  For all other states the rule remains.

Best,

Éanna