Essential things to do

Moving to Germany to study is an exciting step, but arriving in a new country also comes with a few important administrative tasks. For international students in Germany, knowing what to do first can make the transition much easier.

From completing your registration requirements in Germany to arranging health insurance and setting up a German bank account, this arrival checklist for Germany covers the essential first steps in Germany. Getting these tasks organised early gives you more time to settle in, explore your new surroundings and focus on your studies.

What should you do first after arriving in Germany?

How do you register your address in Germany?

Do international students need a residence permit in Germany?

Why should you open a German bank account?

Why is health insurance important for international students in Germany?

How should you arrange internet and a mobile phone contract in Germany?

Key statistics

One of the priorities after arriving in Germany is to take care of the practical and legal requirements that allow you to live and study comfortably. Depending on your nationality and individual circumstances, these can include registering your address, applying for a residence permit, arranging health insurance, opening a bank account and getting a German mobile phone connection.

Germany is home to a large and growing international student community. In the 2024/25 winter semester, around 492,600 international students were enrolled at German higher education institutions – an increase of 5% compared with the previous year.

With so many students arriving from abroad, knowing your arrival checklist can help you avoid unnecessary delays and start your student life with confidence.

If you have moved into permanent housing, one of your most important first steps in Germany is to register your address with the local residents’ registration office or Bürgeramt. This process in Germany is known as Anmeldung.

In Germany, you generally have two weeks after moving into accommodation to register your new address. You will normally need your passport or ID and a confirmation from your landlord that you have moved into the property. Once completed, you will receive a registration certificate, which can be needed for other administrative processes.

It is worth arranging your appointment as early as possible, particularly if you are moving to a larger city where appointments can be in high demand. Keep your registration certificate safe, as you may need it when opening a bank account or dealing with other authorities.

If you are a student from outside the EU or EEA, you will generally need a residence permit for studying in Germany. After entering the country, you should contact the local Foreigners Authority (Ausländerbehörde) and begin the application process within the required timeframe.

If you entered Germany with a student visa, do not wait until it is close to expiring before arranging your residence permit. The Federal Government recommends applying before your entry visa expires, and processing times can vary between local authorities.

Your exact requirements can depend on your nationality and circumstances, so check which documents your local Foreigners Authority requires. Having your passport, proof of registration, health insurance and university documents ready can help make the process smoother.

A German bank account can make everyday life and financial planning much easier. You may need a current account to pay rent, manage regular expenses or receive payments, while many everyday transactions in Germany are handled by bank transfer or direct debit.

It is recommended to open a German bank account as soon as possible after arrival. Banks commonly ask for documents such as your passport, registration certificate and, depending on the account, your residence permit.

When comparing accounts, look at monthly fees, card availability, online banking and international transfer costs. Some banks offer accounts specifically designed for students, so it is worth comparing your options before choosing one.

If you used a blocked account (Sperrkonto) as proof of sufficient funds for your visa, you may also need to arrange access to those funds after arriving in Germany. For 2026, the required amount for a blocked account for study purposes is at least €11,904, equivalent to €992 per month.

Having valid health insurance in Germany is essential. Health insurance is compulsory for people residing in Germany, and students need appropriate insurance coverage to study and complete important administrative processes.

Germany's statutory health insurance system covers almost 90% of the population, with more than 70 million people insured through statutory health insurance funds.

Before or shortly after arriving, make sure your insurance is active and that you have the relevant confirmation or insurance number. International students should check whether they are eligible for statutory student insurance or whether another form of recognised coverage applies to their situation.

Having your insurance organised early also means you can access healthcare if you become ill and avoids problems when completing your residence or university-related paperwork.

Staying connected is another practical part of your arrival checklist. A German SIM card or mobile phone contract gives you a local number for everyday communication, university contacts, online services and appointment notifications.

You can generally choose between prepaid SIM cards and monthly contracts. A prepaid option can be useful during your first weeks if you are still deciding which provider and contract best suit your needs. If you are staying in Germany for longer, compare data allowances, network coverage, contract length and cancellation conditions before signing up.

You may also need a home internet connection if it is not included in your accommodation. Check what is already provided before signing a separate contract, particularly if you are living in student accommodation or a shared flat.

• 492,600 international students were enrolled at German higher education institutions in the winter semester 2024/25.
• The required amount for a blocked account (Sperrkonto) in 2026 is at least €11,904 or €992 per month.
• Around 90% of Germany's population is covered by statutory health insurance.