Documents You Need to Rent an Apartment in Germany — Explained Simply
- Nov 29, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago
Renting an apartment in Germany can be competitive, especially for immigrants who may not be familiar with the system or required paperwork. Landlords expect tenants to submit a complete set of documents — often called a Mietmappe (rental application folder) — before they consider you for a rental.
This guide breaks down every essential document you need, why it matters, and simple tips to make your application stronger
Passport or Residence Permit (ID Verification)
This is the most basic requirement. Landlords need to confirm:
Your identity
Your nationality
Your legal permission to stay in Germany
What to provide:
A clear scan/photo of your passport
Your residence permit card (if applicable)
Tip: Ensure the scan is bright and readable. Blurry photos can make landlords doubt your seriousness.
Proof of Income (Gehaltsabrechnungen)
Landlords want to make sure you can afford the rent. The standard expectation is:
👉 Your monthly net income should be at least 3× the Kaltmiete (basic rent).
What to provide:
Last 3 months of payslips
Current employment contract
Bank statements showing salary deposits (optional but helpful)
If you’re new to Germany, you provide:
Your signed employment contract
Email/letter from your employer confirming your start date
SCHUFA Credit Report
The SCHUFA shows your credit history and financial reliability. Landlords use it to check if you’ve had unpaid debts.
Where to get it:
Bonify
ImmobilienScout24 (SCHUFA Quick Check)
A clean SCHUFA increases your chances significantly.
If you do not yet have an SCHUFA, explain that you recently moved to Germany and offer alternative documents (bank statements, contract, pay slips).
Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung (Landlord Debt-Free Certificate)
This proves you do not owe unpaid rent to your previous landlord.
Who issues it:
Your current or previous landlord
Your property manager
If you are new to Germany, you will not have this document. That’s okay. You can write a short letter explaining that you are moving from abroad and provide alternative documents:
Letter from previous landlord
Rent payment history
Bank statements showing your rental payments
Self-Disclosure Form (Mieterselbstauskunft)
This is a short questionnaire provided by the landlord or property manager. It asks for:
Name and contact details
Occupation and employer
Number of people moving in
Pets
Salary
Smoking habits
SCHUFA permission
Always answer honestly. False information may lead to contract termination.
Bank Statements (Optional but Helpful)
Some landlords request 3–6 months of statements to verify:
Salary deposits
Stable finances
No major debt issues
If you’re uncomfortable sharing your full statement, you can hide private transactions — just don’t hide salary entries.
Copy of Your Rental Application Folder (Digital or PDF)
A complete, neat Mietmappe sets you apart in competitive markets like Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg.
Your folder should include:
Passport + residence permit
SCHUFA report
Payslips
Employment contract
Self-disclosure form
Reference letter (optional)
Tip: Combine everything into ONE PDF for a professional look. Download the Rental Application Toolkit, compl.
Additional Documents That Can Improve Your Chances
Work Contract Confirmation Letter: Especially useful for newcomers.
Letter of Introduction: A short, friendly note explaining who you are and why you’re a reliable tenant.
Designating a German-speaking friend as the point of contact: This can help some landlords feel more comfortable.
Guarantor (Bürge): If your income is low, a guarantor can help secure a rental.
Having the right documents ready can make a significant difference when renting an apartment in Germany—especially for immigrants. The more complete and organised your application, the higher your chances of being selected.
Prepare your folder, stay confident, and apply early. Germany’s rental market can be tough, but with the right preparation, you can absolutely secure a great home.
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