Coming to Germany
Info hub
Getting set up in Germany — Anmeldung, visa, health insurance, banking and the essentials. Searchable and to the point.
Heads up: this is general orientation, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules and amounts vary by city and Bundesland and change over time — always confirm with the official source before acting.
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Anmeldung: registering your address
Almost everything in Germany starts with the Anmeldung. Register your home address at the Bürgeramt to unlock your tax ID, bank account and more.
Read→Contracts: minimum terms and cancellation
Mobile, internet, gym and insurance contracts often auto-renew. Know the rules so you don't get locked in for another year.
Read→Finding an apartment
The rental market in big cities is competitive. Understand cold vs warm rent, the deposit, and the documents landlords expect.
Read→Health insurance: public vs private
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Understand the difference between gesetzlich (public) and privat (private), and how to enrol.
Read→Liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung)
It's not legally required, but personal liability insurance is one of the cheapest and most recommended policies in Germany.
Read→Opening a bank account (Girokonto)
A current account (Girokonto) is needed for salary, rent and direct debits. Compare traditional banks and app-based banks, and learn about SCHUFA.
Read→Public transport and the Deutschland-Ticket
Germany has excellent public transport. Learn how zones and tickets work, and why the Deutschland-Ticket is often the simplest choice.
Read→Quiet hours (Ruhezeit) and Sunday rest
Germany protects rest times by law and custom. Loud activities at night or on Sundays can lead to complaints — or fines.
Read→Recycling and the Pfand deposit system
Germany takes recycling seriously. Learn the bin colours and how to get your bottle deposit (Pfand) back.
Read→Residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) basics
Non-EU nationals usually need a residence permit. Learn who needs one, where to apply, and how the Ausländerbehörde appointment works.
Read→Tax ID (Steuer-ID) and tax classes
Your Steuer-ID follows you for life and your employer needs it to pay you correctly. Understand tax classes and why they matter for your net salary.
Read→The broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag / GEZ)
Almost every household must pay the public broadcasting fee — even if you never watch TV. Here's how it works and how not to pay twice.
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