21 Things to Know Before Moving to Germany from the US | MoveHub

Moving to a new country entirely, either for work or as a student can pose many difficulties. This is even more profound if language is a barrier. You have to first deal with issues concerning leaving your old country and then those of your new destination.

Moving to a country like Germany, one of the superpowers in Europe, is not different. You’ll need a lot of help. You’ll need to find an apartment, know what companies provide certain services and many more. Those are some of the things a brand like Erfahrungenscout.de can help you achieve. They are a great outlet providing online companies reviews in Germany. You can get essential information about many companies, the services they offer and more on their website.

Whether in Berlin, Stuttgart, Bremen, Munich or any other city, there are lots of things to put in place if you intend to live a smooth life. Thus, below is a list of a couple of essential things you need to do while trying to settle down in Germany.

  1. Open a German Bank Account

To open a German bank account, you should book an appointment with a financial representative of the bank of your choice. Documents you’ll need include your Anmeldebestätigung (German registration certificate) and a valid passport or ID card. You can read these German banks online reviews to know more about banks in Germany. 

Your Anmeldebestätigung is very important when you want to open a bank account in Germany. To get your Anmeldebestätigung, you’d first need to have a registered permanent address. Thus, finding an apartment should even be your first duty.  

Having a bank account will help in making all your financial transactions such as paying for goods and services, rent payment and other bills, less daunting. 

  1. A Valid Work Contract

A work contract in Germany (Arbeitsvertrage) is as important as getting a job. This contract helps define your role and every other detail concerning your work. Without this, you can’t start work in Germany. Your employer should provide you with this document. There are different types of employment contracts in Germany. You should be aware of what you are getting into.

  1. A Long-term Rental Contract

Having a roof over your head in a new country is one of the most vital necessities of life. In Germany, online platforms can help you find a suitable abode, especially if you know no one. There are also co-living options for you if you are looking to reduce costs.

Getting a residence place helps you set up your permanent address registration and obtain your Anmeldebestätigung.

  1. Permanent Address Registration

Like we said earlier, you need to get your abode registered to help in filling out your address in other important documents. This anmeldung registration is done within 14 days of your relocation to your new address. 

You will need a passport, registration form (Anmeldung Formular), and a Wohnungsgeberbestatigun (a landlord confirmation). A Wohnungsgeberbestatigun is a document that can only be issued by the landlord or the Haupmieter, the foremost tenant.

The Bürgeramt is where your Anmeldung registration and application takes place. You will need to book an appointment at any of their offices. This can be done physically or online. There are many Bürgeramt centres around. All you need do is visit anyone close to you or any of your choice. After getting this, opening a bank account should be your next move.

  1. Your Tax Number

Your steueridentifikationsnummer is a very important document that you must have. It is a unique number that you are identified with concerning all tax issues. This doesn’t require any added appointment since it is issued together with your Anmeldebestätigung.

The Finanzamt is saddled with the responsibility of issuing this unique number.

Knowing what needs to be done when relocating to a new country is a vital step in fulfilling your dreams and set goals. With all the above in place, if Germany is your destination, you are certain to ease into life and make the most of your time there.