Just arrived in Germany and not sure what to do next? We’ll guide you step by step so you can settle in quickly, find your way around, and take care of all the important tasks right after your entry into Germany.
From finding a place to live to registering your address and getting health insurance – this guide gives you everything you need to build a solid foundation for your new life in Germany.
1. Find an Address and Secure Accommodation
Before you can register your address or schedule appointments with authorities, you’ll need a residential address – even if it's temporary. That could be:
- a rented flatshare or apartment,
- staying with friends or family,
- a student dorm or transitional housing,
- or even a hotel (accepted for registration in some cities).
📄 Important: You’ll need a written landlord confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung) from the person or institution you're staying with. Without it, you can’t register your address at the local registration office.
2. Register Your Address (Anmeldung)
Once you have an address, you’re required to register with the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt) within 14 days of moving in. You’ll need the following documents:
- Your passport or national ID
- If applicable, your visa or residence permit
- The landlord confirmation
- Your rental contract (optional but helpful)
After registering, you’ll receive a registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung) – an official document you’ll need for things like opening a bank account, getting health insurance, visiting the foreigners’ office, or starting a job.
3. Open a Bank Account
A German bank account is essential for:
- Getting paid
- Paying rent
- Managing insurance or phone contracts
- Accessing certain digital services
Most banks offer online account opening, but some may require an in-person appointment. You’ll usually need:
- Passport or national ID
- Registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
- Residence permit (if applicable)
- Tax ID (if available)
💡 Recommended Banks for International Doctors
N26: Fast online setup, English-language app, no registration certificate needed
DKB: Free current account with a user-friendly app
Apobank: Specifically for healthcare professionals – ideal for long-term plans in Germany
4. Get Health Insurance
Germany has a mandatory health insurance system. That means you must have either public or private health insurance – even if you're not currently working.
If you're taking a language course or preparing for exams, special tariffs are often available. Once you start working or begin a training program, you’ll usually be insured automatically.
💡 Tip: Sign up for your health insurance via Get2Germany – we’re happy to help you choose the right one.
5. Get Oriented in Daily Life
To help you settle in faster, here are a few practical steps:
- Get a SIM card: Prepaid or contract, depending on your stay. We recommend fraenk.
- Use helpful apps: For local transport (BVG, Deutsche Bahn, MVV), translations (e.g. DeepL), or maps.
- Connect with others: Integration courses, local meetups, or online forums.
- Practice your German: At a Volkshochschule (community college), or simply during everyday activities like shopping or chatting at a café.
You Don’t Have to Navigate the Recognition Process Alone – Get2Germany Has Your Back
Join our community and make your new beginning easier:
With the eGuide, you’ll move step by step through the recognition process. In our eCommunity, you’ll connect with others, get advice, and feel supported. And with ApproLearn, our learning app, you can prepare for medical language and licensing exams – anytime, anywhere.
Start now for free – and take your next step in Germany with confidence.