Settling in Germany after arrival
Essential administrative and practical steps during your first weeks in Germany.
Essential first steps
Register your address, secure healthcare coverage and complete residency requirements.
Your first weeks matter
Most administrative tasks have deadlines. Registering your address should be done within 14 days of moving in, and your residence permit application should begin before your visa expires.
Typical arrival timeline
Register your address
Book a Bürgeramt appointment and complete your Anmeldung within 14 days of moving in.
Activate health insurance
Confirm your coverage or switch to a statutory provider if required.
Open a bank account
Use your Anmeldung confirmation to open a full German bank account.
Apply for residence permit
Book an appointment at the Ausländerbehörde before your visa expires.
Receive tax ID
Your Steuer-ID arrives by post after Anmeldung — needed for employment.
Integration and language
Enrol in German courses and build your local support network.