Cancel Internet Contract When Moving or Leaving Germany: § 60 TKG Guide

Are you hesitant to sign a 24-month home internet contract in Germany because you might relocate to another city, move into shared housing, or return to your home country? Good news: Section 60 of the German Telecommunications Act (§ 60 TKG) legally protects you. You can cancel your contract with just one month's notice if you move or leave the country.

1. What is the Special Right of Termination (Sonderkündigung)?

In Germany, standard home broadband contracts run for 24 months. However, under § 60 TKG, your internet provider (Vodafone, Telekom, O2, or 1&1) must provide the exact same speed and terms at your new address without extending your contract duration. If they cannot deliver the contracted speed at your new home, or if you are leaving Germany permanently, you have the legal right to terminate the contract prematurely.

2. When Does § 60 TKG Apply?

1. Permanent departure from Germany (Ausreise / Relocation abroad): When leaving Germany, you simply register your departure with the local citizens' office (Bürgeramt) to get an Abmeldebestätigung. This serves as official proof for immediate 1-month cancellation.
2. Moving to an apartment without matching infrastructure: If your new flat only has slow DSL and your provider cannot deliver your contracted 100 or 250 Mbps cable speed, you can terminate.
3. Moving into accommodation where internet already exists: If you move into shared housing (WG) or accommodation where a contract is already active, providers routinely accept early termination upon proof.

3. Notice Period and Deadlines

Thanks to the modern German telecommunications reform, the previous 3-month waiting period has been reduced to 1 month (1-month notice period). The notice period begins on the day your provider receives your cancellation letter and proof of move.

4. What Official Documents Do You Need?

• Leaving Germany: Official deregistration certificate (Abmeldebestätigung from your local Bürgeramt) or employer/university termination.
• Moving within Germany: New registration certificate (Meldebestätigung or Ummeldebestätigung) or new tenancy agreement (Mietvertrag).

5. Ready German Cancellation Template (Musterkündigung)

Copy and customize this German letter, then send it via registered mail (Einschreiben) or your provider's online customer portal: