Plain-English definitions of the key legal terms you'll encounter in Germany. Written for expats and foreign nationals who need to understand the local legal system.
Click any term to read the full definition, FAQs, and practical tips.
Mandatory residential registration with the local authority (Meldebehörde) within 14 days of moving to a new address in ...
Read definition →A residence permit issued to non-EU nationals allowing legal stay and work in Germany for a specified duration and purpo...
Read definition →Termination of a residential tenancy by a landlord based on the claim of personal need to occupy the property....
Read definition →A certificate of inheritance issued by German probate courts (Nachlassgericht) that establishes legal proof of heirship ...
Read definition →Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung; a German limited liability company, the most common business structure for small ...
Read definition →The German land register maintained by local courts (Amtsgericht) that records property ownership, mortgages, and other ...
Read definition →The German commercial register maintained by district courts that records business entities, including GmbH, partnership...
Read definition →German social insurance system providing mandatory coverage for employees including health, long-term care, unemployment...
Read definition →Definition of What is Abmeldung (Deregistration)? under Germany law....
Read definition →Definition of What is Anmeldung (Wohnsitzanmeldung)? under Germany law....
Read definition →Definition of What is Aufenthaltstitel (German Residence Permit)? under Germany law....
Read definition →Definition of What is Grundbuch (German Land Register)? under Germany law....
Read definition →Definition of What is Grunderwerbsteuer? under Germany law....
Read definition →Definition of What is Nebenkostenabrechnung (German Service Charge Statement)? under Germany law....
Read definition →Our directory lists verified law firms across Germany's major cities, all offering English-language legal services.
Browse our verified directory of law firms across Germany's major cities. All listed firms offer English-language legal services to expats and foreign nationals.
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