After arriving in Germany, your first priorities are usually finding a registrable address, completing address registration (Anmeldung) within two weeks of moving in, arranging health insurance, and, for non-EU nationals, applying for your residence title at the immigration office.
This checklist covers the practical steps newcomers commonly deal with in their first weeks. Rules and processes can vary by city and by your personal situation, so always check with the relevant German authority. Atlantic Global Travels provides practical post-arrival support through a Germany-based service partner; we do not provide legal, tax or immigration advice.
Moving to Germany from the UAE? Ask us about practical support for your first days after arrival.
Before You Leave the UAE
Good preparation before departure makes the first weeks easier. Keep the documents you will need on arrival in your hand luggage rather than checked baggage:
- Passport and German visa, if required
- Employment contract, job offer or university admission letter
- Health insurance confirmation for the start of your stay
- Accommodation booking or rental agreement
- Copies of important certificates and qualifications
- Enough funds or card access for your first weeks
If you already know your first address, check whether the landlord will provide the confirmation you need for registration.
Your First Days After Arriving in Germany
The first days are usually about getting settled: reaching your accommodation, getting connected, and preparing documents for registration. Having a place to live matters early, because you need an address to register, and registration unlocks many later steps.
| Task | When to check or do it | Commonly needed | Who handles it | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Address registration (Anmeldung) | Within two weeks of moving in | Passport, landlord confirmation, registration form | Local registration office | Needed for many later steps |
| Health insurance | Before or soon after arrival | Passport, proof of address or employment | Health insurer | Insurance is mandatory in Germany |
| Residence title (non-EU) | After arrival, before your entry visa expires | Passport, visa, registration, insurance, other documents | Immigration office | Requirements depend on purpose of stay |
| Tax ID | Sent after registration | Registered address | Federal Central Tax Office | Arrives by post; needed by employers |
| Bank account | After registration | Passport, registration certificate | Bank | Requirements vary by bank |
| Mobile SIM | First days | Passport; address for some contracts | Mobile provider | Prepaid options can help early on |
This table is a general guide. Deadlines and documents can differ by municipality and personal situation.
Address Registration (Anmeldung)
Short answer: register your address within two weeks of moving in.
Registration with the local residents’ registration office is compulsory in Germany. According to BAMF, the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees, you must register within two weeks of taking up residence in an apartment, and you need a confirmation from your landlord. You receive a registration certificate, which you will often need for other steps. The name of the office and the booking process vary by city.
Residence Permit and Immigration Appointments
If you are a third-country national, BAMF explains that you must go to the immigration authority in person after arriving to apply for a residence title, which is issued according to the purpose of your stay. Book your appointment early, as waiting times can be long in some cities, and follow the document list from your local immigration office. For advice on your individual case, speak to the authority or a qualified adviser.
Health Insurance
Short answer: health insurance is mandatory in Germany.
BAMF states that it is mandatory to have statutory or private health insurance in Germany. Which type applies depends on your situation, such as employment or study. Make sure your cover is in place from the start of your stay, and keep your insurance confirmation with your other documents.
Tax ID and Employment Administration
After you register your address, your tax identification number is sent to you automatically by post from the Federal Central Tax Office. Employers usually need it for payroll, so pass it on as soon as it arrives. If it does not arrive, contact the relevant tax office.
Banking and Payments
A German bank account is often needed for salary, rent and contracts. Banks usually ask for your passport and registration certificate, but requirements vary by bank. Students may also need to activate a blocked account; follow the instructions from your provider.
Want help with your arrival checklist? Share your arrival date and city, and we will explain the support available.
SIM Card and Mobile Connection
A local mobile number makes appointments, banking and deliveries easier. Prepaid SIM cards can be a practical first step; longer contracts may require a German address or bank account.
Housing and Local Orientation
Many newcomers start in temporary accommodation and look for a longer-term home once they arrive. Check that your accommodation allows registration, as you will need a landlord confirmation. Learning local public transport and the area around your home, work or university helps you settle faster.
Public transport ticket options differ by city and region, and there are also options for travel across Germany. Check your local transport provider for the ticket that suits your daily routine. When viewing longer-term housing, allow time for applications and paperwork, and keep copies of every document you submit.
Important Documents to Keep Together
- Passport and visa or residence documents
- Registration certificate
- Landlord confirmation and rental contract
- Health insurance confirmation
- Employment contract or university admission letter
- Tax ID letter once received
- Bank details
Tips for Appointments with German Authorities
- Book appointments as early as you can; availability varies by city
- Bring original documents as well as copies
- Check the document list on your local authority’s website before you go
- Arrive on time, as missed appointments may need to be rebooked
- Keep every letter you receive, as many official processes continue by post
Many forms and letters are in German. Having someone to help you understand what is being asked can make the process less stressful, but for legal questions always rely on the authority or a qualified adviser.
Household Broadcasting Fee
Germany charges a broadcasting contribution per household. After you register an address, you may receive a letter about it. Read it carefully and respond as requested; if you share a flat, usually only one person per household pays.
How Atlantic Global Travels Can Assist
From our office in Ajman, we arrange practical Germany post-landing support through our Germany-based service partner. Support can include:
- Airport pickup
- Accommodation support
- City registration (Anmeldung) support
- Banking and blocked account guidance
- SIM and transport help
- A day with a mentor
- Emergency support
This service covers practical post-arrival support only. It does not include visa processing or legal, tax or immigration advice. Pricing depends on the support you choose; contact us for a quotation. We can also help with flights and hotels and travel insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first after arriving in Germany?
Secure a registrable address, register it within two weeks of moving in, make sure your health insurance is in place, and, if you are a non-EU national, book your immigration office appointment.
What is Anmeldung?
It is the compulsory registration of your address with the local registration office. You receive a registration certificate that is needed for many later steps.
Do I need health insurance in Germany?
Yes. Statutory or private health insurance is mandatory in Germany.
When do I receive a German tax ID?
It is sent to you automatically by post from the Federal Central Tax Office after you register your address.
Can Atlantic Global Travels help with post-arrival setup?
Yes. Through our Germany-based partner, support can include airport pickup, accommodation support, Anmeldung support, banking guidance, SIM and transport help, a mentor day and emergency support.
Can you assist with local transport and settling-in arrangements?
Yes. SIM and transport help and a day with a mentor for local orientation are part of the available support.
Is Atlantic Global Travels a legal or immigration adviser?
No. We are a travel company arranging practical post-arrival support. We do not provide legal, tax or immigration advice or visa processing.
Planning your move to Germany?
Our UAE team can arrange practical support for your arrival through our Germany-based partner. WhatsApp: +971 56 766 4117