Applying for access to Stasi files as a public or non-public body

Service Description

Public and non-public bodies may submit requests to the Stasi Records Archive for purposes defined in the Stasi Records Act (StasiUnterlagen-Gesetz - StUG) if they require information

  • for the purpose of investigating persons with regard to activities for the State Security Service of the former GDR,
  • in the context of rehabilitation and restitution proceedings,
  • in pension matters (conditional),
  • in matters relating to religious orders or
  • in security and background checks.

Access to the documents of the State Security Service can take the form of

  • written notification,
  • inspection of files or
  • the release of documents

whereby written notification is the rule.

Upon request, the requesting body may be sent a supplementary notification with additional copies, if necessary, if the notification raises technical questions or requires further explanation.

If no information on the purpose is available, a corresponding notification will also be sent.

The public or non-public body must apply in writing or online to the Stasi Records Archive for access to the Stasi records.

Notes:
Due to the legally prescribed purpose limitation, the requesting body may only use the information sent for the respective purpose. This also results in a prohibition on the disclosure of the communication and the information it contains.

This access option to Stasi records is primarily aimed at public bodies. Access for non-public bodies is very limited. If you are unsure, we recommend that you seek personal advice from the specialist department due to the complexity involved.

Source: Zuständigkeitsfinder Thüringen (Linie6PLus)

Competent Authority

Bundesarchiv (BArch) – Stasi-Unterlagen-Archiv

Address
Frankfurter Allee 204
10365 Berlin, Stadt
Telephone
+49 30 18665-50
Remark: General telephone number
Telephone
+49 30 18665-7000
Remark: Telephone advice
Fax
+49 30 18665-7799
Opening times

Personal advice for citizens:

Monday 08:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 16:00

Tuesday 08:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 16:00

Wednesday 08:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 16:00

Thursday 08:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 16:00

Friday 08:00 - 14:00

Telephone advice for citizens:

Monday 08:00 - 16:00

Tuesday 08:00 - 16:00

Wednesday 08:00 - 16:00

Thursday 08:00 - 16:00

Friday 08:00 - 14:00