Moving to Germany: what matters before and after

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Which rules apply to you depends mainly on your citizenship, not on your language or the country you live in. With the citizenship of an EU country, such as Croatia or Bulgaria, you can usually live and work in Germany without a visa. With another citizenship you usually need a residence permit that fits your purpose, such as work, training, studies or family.

What to prepare before you move

Check whether your qualification needs to be recognised in Germany. Start learning German as early as you can, many jobs expect it. Keep your passport, birth certificate, diplomas and, if you have one, your marriage certificate ready.

Work and accommodation

An employment contract and a place to live are the basis for many further steps. Use trustworthy job boards. Be careful if you are asked to pay for a flat before you have even seen it.

Documents and health insurance

You must have health insurance in Germany. Employees are usually publicly insured through their employer. For a visa you often have to prove cover before you enter. Also check which documents you need translated or certified.

What only comes after you move in

Only once you have actually moved in do you register your address, usually within two weeks. After that usually come your tax ID by post, a bank account and the broadcasting fee.

Your next steps

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What to prepare before you move

Work and accommodation

Documents and health insurance

What only comes after you move in

Your next steps

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