Moving to Germany — Complete Guide for Newcomers
Moving to Germany involves more paperwork than most people expect. Anmeldung, health insurance, bank accounts, tax IDs, Schufa — each step depends on the previous one and most require at least basic German to navigate.
This guide gives you a clear checklist of what to do, in what order, and what German you need to make it work.
Moving to Germany checklist
Before you arrive
- Get health insurance sorted
- Find temporary accommodation (Airbnb, WG-Zimmer)
- Open an online bank account (N26 or Bunq)
- Learn basic German greetings and phrases
- Pack all official documents (passport, degree, birth certificate)
First week
- Book Anmeldung appointment at Bürgeramt
- Register your address (Anmeldung)
- Get your Steueridentifikationsnummer (tax ID)
- Set up German phone number (Telekom, Vodafone, O2)
First month
- Open a full German bank account
- Register with a health insurance provider
- Get a Schufa credit report
- Set up GEZ (Rundfunkbeitrag) broadcasting fee
- Start learning German if not already
First three months
- Find permanent housing
- Register vehicle if applicable
- Apply for permanent residence documents if eligible
- Reach B1 German for long-term integration
Anmeldung — your most important first step
Anmeldung (address registration) unlocks everything else in Germany. Without it you cannot open a bank account, get a tax ID, or access most public services.
You need: a confirmed permanent address, your passport, and the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation form). Book an appointment at your local Bürgeramt — waiting times can be 2–6 weeks in large cities, so book as soon as you have an address.
The registration is free and takes about 15 minutes. You leave with a Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate) — keep multiple copies.
German makes everything easier
Even A1 German helps at the Bürgeramt, supermarket, and in your building. A2 covers appointments, forms, and housing searches. B1 is required for permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) and citizenship.
Starting German before you move gives you a significant advantage in your first months.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Anmeldung and why is it important?
- Anmeldung is the official registration of your address at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). It is legally required within 14 days of moving into a permanent address. Without Anmeldung you cannot open a German bank account, get a tax ID, register for health insurance, or apply for most official documents.
- How do I open a bank account in Germany as a foreigner?
- Most traditional banks require Anmeldung before opening an account. However, online banks like N26, Bunq, and Revolut allow you to open a German account with just your passport before Anmeldung. Once you have your Anmeldung, you can open an account at Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Sparkasse, or DKB.
- Is health insurance mandatory in Germany?
- Yes. Health insurance is legally mandatory in Germany. Employed people are automatically enrolled in public health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung). Students and self-employed people must arrange their own — either public (TK, AOK, Barmer) or private. Costs start at around €110–€200/month for students.
- How do I find housing in Germany?
- The German rental market is competitive, especially in Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg. Use ImmobilienScout24, WG-Gesucht (for flat-shares), and eBay Kleinanzeigen. A WG (Wohngemeinschaft / shared flat) is the most affordable option for newcomers. Most landlords require a Schufa credit report and the last three payslips.
- What German level do I need for daily life in Germany?
- A1 covers very basic survival communication. A2 helps with appointments, shopping, and simple forms. B1 is the level where most people feel comfortable in everyday situations and is required for permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis). B2 and above is expected for most professional roles.
Learn German before you move
Start with A1 and work toward B1 — it will make every part of your first year in Germany easier.
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