← Learn
Settling Skills· 3 min

Your first weeks: a settling checklist

A practical order of operations for the admin you'll face right after arriving.

The German setup has a natural sequence, because each step unlocks the next. Roughly:

  1. 1Find a place to live (even temporary) and get the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung.
  2. 2Do your Anmeldung at the Bürgeramt.
  3. 3Wait for your tax ID (Steuer-ID) to arrive by post.
  4. 4Open a bank account (Girokonto).
  5. 5Sort out health insurance.
  6. 6If non-EU: book your Ausländerbehörde appointment for the residence permit.
  7. 7Register and pay the broadcasting fee; get liability insurance.
Tip: Keep a folder (physical and digital) with your passport, Meldebescheinigung, contract, insurance and Steuer-ID. You'll be asked for these combinations constantly.