A government authority in Germany responsible for residence-law matters concerning foreigners, such as issuing visas and residence permits.
example
Für die Verlängerung meines Visums muss ich zur Ausländerbehörde gehen.
To extend my visa, I have to go to the immigration office.
Usage tips
Word composition
This word is a typical German compound. It consists of 'Ausländer' (foreigner) and 'Behörde' (authority; a kind of office or government agency). So the meaning is literally 'authority for foreigners'.
EXAMPLE
Die Öffnungszeiten der Ausländerbehörde haben sich geändert.
The opening hours of the immigration office have changed.
Correct preposition
To express movement there, you use 'zu' (often 'zur' in a sentence). When describing where you carry out an action, you use 'bei'.
EXAMPLE
Ich muss morgen zur Ausländerbehörde.
I have to go to the immigration office tomorrow.
Typical collocations
Common actions connected with the immigration office are: 'einen Termin vereinbaren' (to make an appointment), 'einen Aufenthaltstitel beantragen' (to apply for a residence permit), or 'ein Visum verlängern lassen' (to have a visa extended).
EXAMPLE
Sie müssen online einen Termin bei der Ausländerbehörde vereinbaren.
You have to make an appointment online with the immigration office.