How the objection deadline is calculated
A letter posted within Germany legally counts as received on the 4th day after posting (since 1 January 2025; it used to be the 3rd), unless it actually arrived later. The objection period (Widerspruch, or Einspruch for tax decisions) is one month from that day. If the last day falls on a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, it moves to the next working day. Without a correct explanation of your right to object (Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung), the period is one year.
Do not wait for the last day: send your objection a few days earlier and keep proof of sending (registered post, fax or the authority’s online portal).
Frequently asked questions
Is my letter sent anywhere?
No. The analysis runs in your browser and the text never leaves your device.
How do I copy text from a paper letter?
Take a photo with your phone, tap the photo and choose “copy text” (on iPhone and Android), then paste it here.
Is the objection deadline guaranteed?
It follows the general legal rules, but the actual posting date can differ from the letter date and state-only holidays are not included. Treat it as an estimate and reply early.
The decision looks wrong. What now?
File a written objection (Widerspruch, or Einspruch for tax) before the deadline, and keep proof of sending.
Sources
- Administrative Procedure Act §41 (4th-day rule)
- Fiscal Code §122
- Code of Administrative Court Procedure §70 (one month)
- Civil Code §193 (weekends and holidays)
A tool to help you understand the letter, not legal advice. For urgent matters, contact a migration advice centre or a lawyer.