GET THIS DONE AS SOON AS YOU HAVE LANDED IN GERMANY 🇩🇪

Summary

This video script offers a comprehensive guide for students attending the 2024 Winter Internship in Germany. It covers essential preparations, including mobile banking with local bank apps, housing arrangements, and city registration. The speaker emphasizes the importance of registering one's address in Germany for legal residency and obtaining health insurance. Additionally, advice on university enrollment, language courses, and practical tips for daily life in Germany are provided, ensuring viewers are well-equipped for their stay.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker discusses various options for SIM cards, emphasizing the importance of choosing a local bank that will be mobile-friendly.
• 🏦 It's recommended to open a local bank account upon arrival in Germany for ease of transactions and to have the option of additional services like N26.
• 🏠 Accommodation is a priority, and the speaker advises on how to find and secure housing, including the use of platforms like Uniplaces and personal experiences.
• 📑 The necessity of city registration is highlighted, along with the importance of registering one's address in Germany to avoid issues with authorities.
• 💳 The speaker talks about the process of extending a visa, emphasizing the need to visit the local immigration office and the documents required for the extension.
• 🏥 Health insurance is crucial, and the speaker outlines the differences between public and private health insurance options available in Germany.
• 🏛️ University enrollment is detailed, including the documents needed and the process of registering with the university upon arrival in Germany.
• 📱 The importance of having a German SIM card and downloading necessary apps for transportation, banking, and accommodation is discussed.
• 🔌 The speaker advises bringing a universal adapter for electronics due to the different types of power sockets in Germany.
• ✈️ For those arriving by plane, the speaker suggests downloading the DB Navigator app for train ticket bookings and using mobile-friendly apps for convenience.

Q & A

What is the first thing international students should do after arriving in Germany?

The first thing international students should do is find accommodation. It's essential to secure a place to live before handling other bureaucratic tasks.

What are some trusted websites for finding accommodation in Germany?

Trusted websites for finding accommodation include Housing Anywhere, Uni Places, and Wunderflats. However, students should be cautious of scams.

What is 'Anmeldung' and why is it important for students in Germany?

'Anmeldung' refers to registering your address in Germany. It is crucial because without it, students may face difficulties accessing essential services like opening a bank account or getting health insurance.

How long do you have to register your address after arriving in Germany?

You are required to register your address within 14 days of moving into your accommodation, though authorities understand there may be delays due to the housing crisis.

What are the steps to open a bank account in Germany?

After registering your address, you can open a local bank account. Popular options include N26, Wise, and Expatrio for international students.

What health insurance options are available for students in Germany?

Students can choose public health insurance like TK, which costs around €125 per month. Prices vary depending on age, with higher rates for those over 30, who may have to opt for private health insurance.

What documents are needed for university enrollment in Germany?

For university enrollment, students should bring all original documents, including their 10th and 12th-grade certificates, bachelor’s degree (or provisional certificate), and transcripts.

What should students do after registering their address in Germany?

After registering their address, students will automatically receive a tax ID and social security number by mail. If these documents don’t arrive, they should visit the relevant offices to collect them.

How can students extend their visa in Germany?

If students receive a visa for less than one year, they must visit the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) to extend it before it expires. They may need to show proof of finances, such as a blocked account.

What mobile network providers are recommended for international students in Germany?

Recommended mobile providers include O2, Telekom, and Vodafone. Students can choose between prepaid and contract options based on their needs.