6 Critical Things to Do Right After You Arrive in Germany

Summary

This video outlines six essential steps for newcomers in Germany: securing accommodation, completing the 'Anmeldung' or city registration, opening a bank account, activating health insurance, enrolling at university (for students), and obtaining a residence permit. It advises on finding housing, choosing a bank and health insurance provider, and emphasizes the importance of timely registration to ensure legal stay and access to services.

Takeaways

• 🏠 **Finding Accommodation**: The first and crucial step is securing a proper address, which is essential for subsequent steps like city registration and opening a bank account.
• 📝 **Rent Contract and 'Wohnungsgeberbestätigung'**: Obtain a proper rent contract and a document from the landlord called 'Wohnungsgeberbestätigung', which serves as proof of address.
• 📍 **City Registration (Anmeldung)**: Within two weeks of arrival in Germany, register with local authorities in person, following the 'Meldepflicht' law.
• ⏰ **Appointment Tips**: Schedule an appointment online for city registration to avoid long waits, and consider visiting early in the morning for walk-in appointments.
• 🏦 **Opening a Bank Account**: With a fixed address and city registration, open a bank account; C24 is recommended as the best bank account in Germany for expats.
• 💉 **Activate Health Insurance**: Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Public health insurance ('Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung') is common among students.
• 🏛️ **University Enrollment**: As a student, enroll at your university to activate your student status, which provides access to university facilities and services.
• 📑 **Residence Permit (Aufenthaltstitel)**: If staying in Germany longer than 90 days, apply for a temporary residence permit ('Aufenthaltserlaubnis') after city registration and university enrollment.
• 💼 **Proof of Finances**: For the residence permit application, provide proof of finances such as a blocked account or scholarship letter.
• 🔗 **Resources and Links**: Utilize provided resources like dedicated videos on accommodation, bank accounts, and health insurance, and consider joining the community for further support.

Q & A

What is the first thing you need to do after arriving in Germany?

The first thing you need to do is finding accommodation, as it's mandatory for the next steps like city registration and opening a bank account.

What are the two situations one might be in regarding housing in Germany?

One might either have already arranged housing before coming to Germany, or they are planning to look for housing after arriving, in which case staying in a hotel or at a friend's place temporarily is fine.

Why is it important to secure permanent housing quickly in Germany, especially in September?

Securing permanent housing quickly is important because many people, including university students, are looking for apartments as universities start soon, making it almost impossible to get an apartment in cities like Berlin and Munich in September.

What is 'Anmeldung' and why is it necessary?

'Anmeldung' is the city registration process required by German law called 'Meldepflicht', which mandates that anyone moving to a new city must register with local authorities within two weeks of arrival.

What documents are needed for the Anmeldung process?

For the Anmeldung process, you need a passport or ID card, a printed registration form, the rent contract, and the 'Wohnungsgeberbestätigung' which serves as proof of address.

Why is it recommended to schedule an appointment online for city registration?

Scheduling an appointment online for city registration is recommended to avoid spending the entire day at the registration office.

Which bank is recommended for opening a bank account in Germany as an international student or expat?

C24 is recommended as the best bank account in Germany for international students and expats, as it offers a good service without unnecessary fees.

Why is health insurance mandatory in Germany and what are the two types available?

Health insurance is mandatory in Germany for everyone, including for working, studying, and living. The two types available are public health insurance ('Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung') and private health insurance ('Private Krankenversicherung').

What is the recommended public health insurance provider for international students and expats?

The recommended public health insurance provider is Expatrio, which has partnered with TK Health Insurance, a popular choice among students.

What is the purpose of enrolling at the university as an international student?

Enrolling at the university as an international student is to activate your student status, confirm your spot, and gain access to university facilities and services.

What is the 'Aufenthaltstitel' and why is it important for those staying in Germany longer than 90 days?

The 'Aufenthaltstitel' is the residence permit required for those who enter Germany on a visa and wish to stay longer than 90 days, as the visa is only valid for that period and needs to be extended.

What are the two types of German residence permits and which one is relevant for international students and expats?

The two types of German residence permits are the temporary residence permit ('Aufenthaltserlaubnis') and the permanent residence permit ('Niederlassungserlaubnis'). The temporary residence permit is relevant for international students and expats.