What to Do First After Arriving in Germany
If you are new to Germany, this fresh start can be exciting, but it also requires attention and planning. To begin your new life smoothly, you need to take care of some official procedures as soon as possible. Here are the first steps you should take after arriving in Germany:
1. Obtain a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (Confirmation from Landlord)
When you move into an apartment in Germany, your landlord must provide you with a written confirmation. This document, called Wohnungsgeberbestätigung, states who you are, when you moved in, and your new address. It is required to register your residence (Anmeldung). Without this document, you cannot proceed with official registrations.
2. Register Your Address (Anmeldung)
With the landlord’s confirmation in hand, you must go to the Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt in your city to register your address. This is the most important legal proof that you live in Germany. After registration, you’ll receive a certificate (Meldebescheinigung), which is required to open a bank account, apply for insurance, and even for mobile phone contracts.
3. Receive Your Tax Identification Number (Steuer-ID)
A few days after registering your address, your tax identification number (Steuer-ID) will be sent to your home by post. This number is assigned once in a lifetime and is required for employment. Your employer uses it to calculate your taxes and register you in the social insurance system.
4. Apply for Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. If you have an employer, they usually register you with a public health insurance provider. However, you may still need to confirm the process or choose a provider. If you’re unemployed or self-insured, you must apply yourself. Public (e.g., AOK, TK) and private options are available. Without insurance, you cannot access healthcare services.
5. Open a Bank Account (Girokonto eröffnen)
To receive your salary, pay rent, set up utilities, or use online services, you need a German bank account. Most people open a Girokonto (checking account). You’ll usually need your passport, address registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung), and sometimes your tax ID. You can choose between traditional banks (e.g., Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank) and online banks (e.g., N26, DKB).
6. Meet Your Employer and Submit Required Documents
Before starting work, you must submit several documents to your employer: your tax ID, health insurance information, social security number, and your IBAN (bank account number). Often, the Meldebescheinigung is also required. These documents are necessary for your legal employment and proper payroll processing.
7. Start Learning German
Most daily life, workplace communication, and official processes in Germany are conducted in German. Starting to learn the language early on is key for integration. Government-funded Integrationskurs (integration courses) help you learn German and understand local culture. Even basic German will make your life much easier.
Conclusion
Following these seven steps carefully and on time will make your transition to life in Germany much smoother. Each step builds the foundation for the next. Planning and organization will help you settle in securely and confidently.
