🇩🇪 Germany

Führungszeugnis

Criminal Record Certificate

Easy ~5 min Criminal RecordBackground CheckEmployment

/ What is this form?

The Führungszeugnis shows whether you have criminal convictions. There are two types: the standard Führungszeugnis for general employment, and the extended (erweitertes) version required for work involving children or vulnerable adults.

Applications can be made online via the Bundesamt für Justiz portal using your eID, or in person at any Bürgeramt regardless of your registration address. The certificate is always sent by post to your registered home address.

The certificate is issued by the Bundeszentralregister (Federal Central Register) and typically arrives within 1–2 weeks.

/ Who needs this form?

Job applicants when requested by an employer
People applying for licenses such as Waffenschein (firearms) or Taxikonzession
Volunteers or employees working with children (extended version required)
Landlords may request it from prospective tenants

/ What you need before you start

Personal ID (Personalausweis or Reisepass)

Fee: €13

For extended Führungszeugnis: written confirmation from the requesting organization

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Determine Which Type

Standard Führungszeugnis for most purposes. Extended (erweitertes) for work with children — your employer must confirm this in writing.

2 Apply Online or at Bürgeramt

Apply online at bundesjustizamt.de with your eID, or in person at any Bürgeramt.

3 Pay the Fee

Pay €13 online or at the Bürgeramt.

4 Receive by Post

The certificate is sent by post to your registered address within 1–2 weeks.

/ Key fields explained

Field	What to enter	Common mistake
Art des Führungszeugnisses	Select standard or extended (erweitertes). The extended type is only available when an organization formally requests it.	Ordering the extended type without having a written request from an organization — it will be rejected.

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Ordering the wrong type — always confirm with your employer or the requesting authority.

Not knowing you can apply online with eID — saves a trip to the Bürgeramt.

Forgetting that it's sent to your home address, not the employer.

/ Frequently asked questions

How long does it take?

Usually 1–2 weeks by post to your registered address.