You can get one free SCHUFA per year by filling out the “Datenkopie nach Art. 15 DSGVO” form on SCHUFA’s website, attaching ID and proof of address, and sending it by post. It’s for personal use only and arrives by mail in 2–4 weeks.

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How to Get SCHUFA for Free in Germany: A Step-by-Step Guide for Expats and Locals

If you’re planning to rent an apartment, open a bank account, or apply for a loan in Germany, you’ll quickly hear about something called SCHUFA. This credit report plays a major role in everyday life—but did you know that you can get a SCHUFA for free once a year?

In this practical guide, you’ll learn how to get your free SCHUFA report, the difference between the free and paid versions, and why it matters for newcomers and long-term residents in Germany.

What Is SCHUFA and Why Is It Important?

Understanding What SCHUFA Means for Expats and Locals

SCHUFA stands for “Schutzgemeinschaft für allgemeine Kreditsicherung”, which translates to “General Credit Protection Association.” It’s Germany’s leading credit bureau and is used by:

Landlords to assess tenant risk
Banks to evaluate loan or mortgage applications
Phone and utility companies to approve contracts
Car leasing agencies to offer financing options

In short, SCHUFA is your credit reputation in Germany. A positive score makes life easier. A negative one can cause doors to close.

Can You Get a SCHUFA for Free in Germany?

Yes—But It’s Not the Same as the Paid Report

Yes, you are legally entitled to one free SCHUFA report per year, thanks to Article 15 of the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This is called a “Datenkopie nach Art. 15 DSGVO” (data copy under Article 15 GDPR).

However, this free version:

Is for personal reference only
Is not formatted for landlords or banks
Is only available by post

If you’re applying for an apartment, most landlords will require the paid version, which is officially formatted and available instantly.

How to Get Your Free SCHUFA Report

Step-by-Step Process to Request the “Datenkopie”

Here’s exactly how to request your free SCHUFA once a year:

Step 1: Visit the Official SCHUFA Website

Go to the official SCHUFA site and look for the section titled “Datenkopie (nach Art. 15 DSGVO)”. It’s usually under the “Privatkunden” (private customers) menu.

Step 2: Download the Request Form

Download the PDF form provided on the website. This is the official request form for your free data copy.

Step 3: Fill in the Form with Your Details

Provide the following information:

Full name
Date of birth
Current address (must match your registration)
Previous addresses (if applicable)
Email address (optional)

Step 4: Attach Required Identification

Include clear copies of:

Your valid passport or residence permit, and
A proof of address—usually a Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate) issued within the last 6 months

Some people also attach a utility bill to confirm the address, although this is optional.

Step 5: Send the Form by Post

Mail your completed form and documents to:

SCHUFA Holding AG Postfach 10 34 41 50474 Köln Germany

Unfortunately, you cannot email or submit this form online.

Step 6: Wait for Your Report to Arrive

SCHUFA typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to process and send your report by post. It will arrive in an envelope marked “Persönlich” (personal/confidential).

Difference Between Free SCHUFA and Paid SCHUFA

Feature	Free SCHUFA (Datenkopie)	Paid SCHUFA (Bonitätsauskunft)
Cost	Free (once per year)	~€29.95 (one-time)
Purpose	Personal reference	Apartment rental, bank applications
Delivery method	Postal mail only	Online PDF or printout
Appearance	Text-heavy, not formatted	Professional, with credit score table
Processing time	2–4 weeks	Instant (if ordered online)

Tip: If you just want to check your credit status, use the free SCHUFA. But if you’re applying for housing or a loan, you’ll need the paid version.

Who Needs a SCHUFA Report in Germany?

Why Expats and Newcomers Should Get One Early

Even if you haven’t applied for a loan, you may need a SCHUFA report when:

Renting an apartment in Germany (almost all landlords require it)
Signing a mobile phone or internet contract
Applying for credit cards, loans, or auto financing
Starting an Ausbildung or switching banks
Applying for long-term visas (in some regions)

Having a clean, positive SCHUFA can be your golden ticket to being taken seriously as a financially responsible resident.

What If You’ve Never Lived in Germany Before?

Newcomers Without SCHUFA Score

If you’re brand new to Germany, your SCHUFA file may simply not exist yet. In this case:

A blank SCHUFA report will be issued showing no data
This is not negative, but landlords may still hesitate
You can build your SCHUFA score by opening a bank account, registering utility contracts in your name, or getting a German SIM with a postpaid plan

Can You Check Your SCHUFA Score Online for Free?

No. While you can request the free report, there is no free online tool that shows your actual SCHUFA score instantly. The only real-time score access is via the paid online account (meineSCHUFA.de).

Tips for Maintaining a Good SCHUFA Score in Germany

Action	Effect on SCHUFA Score
Paying bills and rent on time	Positive
Defaulting on payments	Negative
Too many credit card applications	Can reduce score temporarily
Having a stable bank account	Positive
Ignoring reminder letters (Mahnung)	Negative

Important: Always update your address with your bank and service providers when you move. Unpaid bills sent to an old address can harm your SCHUFA unknowingly.

Don’t Pay for What You Can Get for Free

The free SCHUFA report (Datenkopie nach Art. 15 DSGVO) is a powerful right for all residents in Germany. While it won’t replace the official version needed for renting, it allows you to check your credit status, spot errors, and avoid surprises before applying for housing or loans.

Request it once a year, check it carefully, and take charge of your financial footprint in Germany. It’s your data—use it wisely.