Verpflichtungserklärung für ausländische Gäste abgeben

• § 68 Aufenthaltsgesetz (AufenthG) – Haftung für Lebensunterhalt
• § 47 Aufenthaltsverordnung (AufenthV) – Gebühren für sonstige aufenthaltsrechtliche Amtshandlungen

Guests from certain countries require a visa for their stay in Germany, which they must apply for. For this purpose, it is usually necessary for the guest to present a declaration of commitment from the host.

If you would like to submit such a declaration, you should observe the following instructions:

• By submitting the declaration, you commit yourself to the foreigner's authority or a foreign mission to bear the costs for the living expenses of a foreigner. This also includes the expenses for accommodation as well as for care in case of illness or need for care.
• If your guest is forced to return home, you are also obliged to bear the costs incurred.

Attention! This obligation is in principle irrevocable and applies for a period of up to five years from the guest's entry. The obligation continues to apply within this period even if the guest's asylum application is successful or a residence title is granted for reasons of international law, humanitarian or political reasons.

• Declaration of commitment (form)
• Survey form (form)
• Proof of income (e.g. salary statement, pension statement, profit/loss statement, tax statement)
• Identity card or passport

You must be financially able to provide for yourself, for all family members living in your household as well as for your guest.

EUR 29,00

You personally declare the obligation to be liable for the living expenses of your guest to the Aliens' Registration Office (competent office).

• Fill out the forms available at the competent office and compile the necessary documents.
• Visit this office during office hours (it is advisable to make an appointment by telephone).
• After the authority has checked the documents, sign the form provided there with the declaration of commitment. Your signature will be officially certified, i.e. you sign the declaration in the presence of the official.
• You will receive the original declaration of commitment.

Important! With the declaration of commitment, your guest applies for a visa in his/her home country at the German diplomatic mission or consular post there. The declaration of commitment must be carried along when entering the country. Your guest must have health insurance for the duration of the visit!

As a rule, declarations of commitment are dealt with immediately if

• it concerns tourist stays or
• Your income statement is available immediately.

Processing takes one week on average if

• it concerns business stays or
• financial evidence from your self-employed work is required.

Validity: for the entire duration of your guest's stay (up to five years)

Security deposit

As an alternative to submitting proof of income, it is possible to deposit a security deposit with the authority. The amount of the deposit depends on the individual case; information on this can be obtained from the Aliens' Registration Office.

The refusal to grant a visa can be challenged before the Administrative Court.