What is the Kaution in Germany, and which document do I need to register my address as a student?

The Kaution is the security deposit you pay your landlord, capped by law at three times the monthly rent, and the amount and terms should be written in your rental agreement. To register your address within two weeks of moving in, you typically need the landlord's statement called the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung.

Kaution and address registration

What to check before signing

• Monthly rent, and whether it is Warmmiete or Kaltmiete
• Additional utility costs and the deposit
• Contract duration and notice period
• Furnishings included and rules for shared spaces
• Keep proof of every payment, and do not transfer money just because someone says a room is available

My Advice

Once you have a fixed address, you typically need to register it with the local government, so ask your landlord for the statement early. Not all temporary housing can be used for registration, so confirm that your address qualifies before you plan around it.