You can apply for the use of audiovisual archive material in the Federal Archives on site in the reading room, by post, by e-mail or online.

Application by post or e-mail:

• Fill out the application form. State the subject and purpose of use as precisely as possible.
• If you already know which media you would like to use, indicate this in the application.
• Formulate a written request in which you describe your request as precisely as possible.
• Send the completed and signed form and your additional information to the Federal Archives by post or e-mail.
• The Federal Archives will check whether audiovisual archive material relating to your query can be expected in the Federal Archives and under what conditions or requirements it can be made usable.
• You will receive written information on the result of the examination, further information and advice on use and possible costs.
• The conditions under which audiovisual media can be used in the Federal Archives can be found in the image usage conditions on the form.
• You will receive a separate fee notice.

Online application:

• Go to the website of the federal portal verwaltung.bund.de
• Call up the online form. The online form will guide you step by step through the information and documents required.
• Upload the required documents and submit the application.
• The remaining steps are the same as the procedure by post or e-mail.

Application in the reading room:

• You can also complete the application directly on site at the Federal Archives. However, you should register in advance by telephone or e-mail.

Under certain circumstances, the type of use cannot be freely chosen for important reasons, which is why an on-site inspection is necessary. You can be represented. The person representing you must also complete an application form and submit a signed power of attorney issued by you.