So, you have just landed in Germany? First of all – Willkommen! I’m here to tell you about the key first steps after moving to Germany.
Grab a cup of coffee, sit down and let’s talk about the most important first steps after moving to Germany to make your start here as smooth as possible. Let’s begin!
Register Your Address (Anmeldung):
Let’s talk about the registration process. To start your journey to Germany on the right foot, your first step after moving to Germany is the registration of your new home with the local authorities. It is an obligation to register, and you have one week (in some lands it might be 14 days) to go to the town hall and let them know where you live. Be sure to do it on time, coz otherwise you might receive a fine.
After registration you will receive Anmeldungbestatigung which is a confirmations that you are registered. This little piece of paper is your really important here – from opening a bank account to getting that magical residence permit.
To register go to the neighborhood office with confirmation from your landlord, your ID and a smile.
You don’t know where you should go to register? Simple google “[name of the city that you live in] anmeldung”. Do not prepare a registration form found on the Internet in advance, as it varies from location to location.
Remember to put your name on the mailbox after registering. Soon you will receive many letters regarding your move.
TIP: If you live in a larger city you should get along in English without a problem. However, if you live in a smaller town and your level of German may not be sufficient to communicate at the office, take someone with you to help you if you have difficulties. If there is no one you know yet, ask on a local expat group if someone would help you register for a small fee.
Don’t forget to deal with the GEZ, which is a radio and television license fee. It is mandatory in Germany even if you don’t have or use TV or radio. Luckily, it is not charged per person, but per household.
Open a German Bank Account
It is a good idea to have an account with a German bank. You can use it to buy on ebay, Amazon, pay in the shops, for public transport etc. Your employer can also transfer money to your foreign account, but it will take longer and ATM withdrawals may be more expensive.
To open a bank account you can head to the bank of your choice or choose online banking. Remember that it’s good to choose an EC card.
When I moved to Germany I didn’t speak German very well yet, so I opened an account at ING. You can open this account from home, and the consultants who verify your identity speak English. My friends also recommend the online bank N26, however, I personally have not used it.
Remember! In Germany most small local stores, small cafes, stands at the Christmas market etc. do not accept card payments. It’s good to carry some cash with you.
Get Health Insurance
Let’s talk about the German health insurance.
Today there are several options – public or private health insurance. The public system, such as TK, Barmer or AOK etc. is preferred by many people as it offers comprehensive cover at a reasonable price. Private insurance, on the other hand offers more personalized benefits. To get started, you’ll have to choose system and provider, then you’ll need to fill an application online or go to the provider.
Whether you choose public or private insurance, it’s important to keep your health insurance card safely tucked away in your wallet. It’s your ticket to hassle-free visits to the doctor, picking up prescriptions and the occasional “I need help” moment.
I’am a member of Barmer Health Insurance, where you can register in EnglishBe sure to check if that’s the best insurance for you. You can use check24 to compare you options.
Get a German SIM card
The next step after moving to Germany is to get a reliable SIM card in your phone.
The first thing you should do is to choose your provider. The options are as varied as the beer selection in Germany – from Deutsche Telekom to the inexpensive O2 offers. Choose a tariff that suits your data needs and connection habits.
My SIM card is provided by WinSIM. You can order the card without leaving home.
Understand Recycling and Waste Separation
It’s not the most important one of the first steps after moving to Germany, but you have to know that Germans take recycling seriously, and sorting waste is something important here. Get ready for the colorful garbage cans: for paper, plastic, organic waste and everything else.
The yellow bag (you can get it in some shops or city offices) is the perfect place for packaging – plastic and metal. Glass is a completely different story – brown, green and clear, each with its own container. You have to put some effort, but you’ll be a pro at sorting in no time. As for me, I received instructions for garbage segregation in the welcome package upon anmeldung.
Explore new neighborhood
Now comes the fun part – discovering a new neighborhood in the heart of Germany!
I’ll let you in on a secret: your neighborhood is more than just streets and buildings; it’s your new home waiting to be discovered. Take a slow walk to the nearest bakery – trust me, you’ll thank me the first time you bite into a freshly baked Brötchen.
Check out the local parks, where you can relax and enjoy the casual atmosphere, don’t be afraid to visita store nearby, walk and see what you neighborhood has to offer.
And there you have it, a quick course with first steps after moving to Germany to make your first days here easier. Whether you walk through the busy streets of Berlin or enojoy the beauty of Bavaria, remember: your adventure is unique.
And one more thing: Welcome, I hope you’ll find happiness here.
Your not in Germany? You’re just thinking if it’s a good idea to move? Read The Pros and Cons of Living Abroad.
Disclaimer: some of the links in the blog are affiliate links, this means that I may receive a commission if you use my referral.
