Well, it went off without a hitch. I went in, showed them my documents, explained my situation, and I got my residency and work permits extended two years!

Time to celebrate!

Part of what I need to renew my visa is a Bescheinigung (document) which certifies that I am not receiving any social services… I found this page

It has information for every Kiez in the city and a handy map which you can click on to locate the local office which is responsible for your PLZ (Postleitzahl - post code).

Okay, so I got through to my friendly neighbourhood Ausländeramt, and this is what they want from me:

30 euros,

2 Lichtbilder (pass photos),

Krankenversicherung (private health insurance),

Arbeitsvertrag (employment contract),

Anmeldebescheinigung (residency registration certificate),

Mietvertrag (apartment rental contract),

Valid passport,

and a “proof” from the Arbeitsamt that I am not using any social services, i.e. I am supporting myself (not like 10% of the German population, which is drinking on my tax dime).