Why registration sits near the beginning
Anmeldung records your German residential address with the local authority. The resulting registration certificate is often requested during banking, insurance and other administrative conversations. Registration also starts the process that normally sends your tax identification number by post.
The appointment is not a visa extension and does not prove ownership of the home. Its purpose is narrower: recording where you live.
The landlord confirmation matters
A rental contract alone may not be enough. The Wohnungsgeberbestätigung is the confirmation completed by the housing provider. Before relying on temporary accommodation, ask explicitly whether it can issue this document and on what date.
Names should match passports, including each family member registering. Keep the original available and retain a copy with the registration certificate.
Plan around local practice
Booking systems and accepted forms vary by municipality. Check the official city page shortly before your move rather than relying on an old expatriate forum post. If the portal releases appointments in batches, record when you checked and look at nearby offices permitted by the city.
Bring the required identity documents and completed forms. Arrive with enough time to pass building security, but do not assume staff can resolve unrelated residence-permit questions during the same slot.