The registration of Ukrainians in Berlin has changed since December 1, 2025

In Berlin, starting from December 1, 2025, a new primary registration system for Ukrainians will be in effect. The city has now changed the registration process, introduced mandatory prior appointments, and streamlined the procedure for distribution to temporary residences for those who are newly arriving in the German capital. This is reported by Visit Ukraine.

The first step for all newcomers is to contact the Ankunftszentrum at Oranienburger Str. 285. Here, initial consultations are held, documents are provided, and short-term accommodations, medical examinations, or infectious screenings can be organized. People with pets are not allowed on the premises – and the temporary accommodations of LAF do not accept families with animals, so Ukrainians are advised to arrange temporary care at their own expense in advance. After that, applicants are directed to the center in Tegel, where full registration, a security interview, and distribution to temporary housing take place.

Registration of Ukrainians in Berlin: New Rules and Key Steps

The registration system now consists of several steps:

• contacting the Ankunftszentrum at Oranienburger Str. 285;
• receiving consultations, documents, and examinations;
• being directed to Tegel;
• undergoing full registration and an interview;
• determining a place of temporary residence.

The main change is that the Tegel center operates only by appointment, which can only be made through the Ankunftszentrum. It is not possible to register independently.

What to do after completing all procedures

After completing stages at both centers, Ukrainians must independently apply for social assistance at the Sozialamt or Jobcenter and obtain a residence permit under §24 AufenthG. This can be done online through LEA to receive the temporary document Fiktionsbescheinigung.

Germany is adjusting its refugee reception system to reduce the burden on centers, avoid long queues, and ensure an orderly distribution of people among shelters. The new rules aim to expedite the process while making it more controlled from a security perspective.

Previously, we reported that Ukrainians in Germany must register their place of residence within 14 days of moving; otherwise, they face a fine of up to 1000 euros.