Declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung)
Service description
By submitting a declaration of commitment, a third party undertakes to the state to pay for the living expenses of a foreigner in order to help him or her to stay in Germany if he or she does not have sufficient funds. This regularly includes the costs of departure or, if applicable, deportation. It is not necessary to submit a declaration of commitment if the foreigner (guest) is able to secure his or her own livelihood and proves this to the respective embassy.
In the event of a commitment, all public funds must be reimbursed that are required for the foreigner's living expenses, including the provision of housing and care in the event of illness or need for long-term care. A declaration of commitment can be submitted by natural and legal persons (e.g. companies, charitable associations). The submission of the declaration of commitment by an authorized person is not permitted. The personal appearance of the person making the declaration of commitment is required.
The declaration of commitment does not represent any obligation towards the invited foreigner. The declaration of commitment enables state authorities to make financial claims against you (as the sponsor) if, because of the foreigner's stay, public funds have to be used that are not based on contributions (for example, social welfare costs, but not pensions or unemployment benefits if the foreigner has paid contributions for them).
Who should I contact?
You can obtain further information on the declaration of commitment from the locally responsible foreigners authorities of the administrative districts and independent cities.
Which documents are required?
- Your identity card or passport
- Copy of the passport of the person applying for the "visa
- Information on marital status and existing support obligations (e.g. spouse, underage children, etc.)
- Proof of creditworthiness e.g. employment contract, the last 3 salary statements/ in case of self-employment: business evaluation of the last 6 months, pension statement etc.
- If necessary, it is possible to set up a blocked account (form after consultation with the respective SB)
- Rental contract/extract from land register
- Current certificate of registration with all persons living in the household
- The conclusion of a foreign health insurance is recommended
- A fee of 29,00 € in cash for one declaration of commitment each (underage children as well as spouses can be applied for on one declaration of commitment)
These documents must be brought by the applicant on the day of application.
What are the fees?
There are fees in the amount of 29.00 EUR.
Legal basis
