Steuer-ID: how new arrivals get their German tax ID
Short answer: you don't apply for it. After you register your address (Anmeldung), the Federal Central Tax Office (Bundeszentralamt für Steuern, BZSt) sends your tax ID by post to that address. If it doesn't arrive, request it again with the BZSt online form; for data-protection reasons it is never given out by phone or email.
What it is
The tax identification number (Steuerliche Identifikationsnummer, often "Steuer-ID" or "IdNr") is an 11-digit number that stays the same for life. It does not change when you move, marry or change your name.
When you need it
- Any job, including student jobs and Werkstudent positions: your employer needs it with your date of birth to apply the right tax class. Without it, German rules generally require the employer to withhold tax at the highest rate (tax class VI) until you provide it; you can get the excess back through a tax return.
- Some banks, insurers and investment accounts also ask for it.
How it reaches you
- Register your address at the Bürgeramt (see the first 90 days checklist).
- The registration office passes your data on; the BZSt creates your tax ID and posts a letter to your registered address. No fixed processing time is published; many people receive it within a few weeks.
- Put your name on your letterbox (and on the flat's doorbell), otherwise the letter may not reach you.
- Keep the letter. Later, the number also appears on your payslip, your annual wage tax certificate and any tax assessment.
It didn't arrive or you lost it
- Check old documents first: payslip, wage tax certificate, tax assessment.
- Request it again with the BZSt online form (or by post). It is sent by post only.
- If you want it sent to an address other than your registered one, the BZSt needs your written authorisation with a copy of your ID.
Sources
General information, not tax advice.