Mandatory things you must do after arriving Germany
If you have recently arrived in Germany, there are several mandatory things that you must do to comply with local laws and regulations. These actions are important to ensure that you are legally authorized to stay in the country, and to access essential services and benefits. In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of the mandatory things that you have to do after arriving in Germany.
- Register Your Residence:
Within two weeks of arriving in Germany, you must register your residence with the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). This is a mandatory requirement for all foreign nationals who plan to stay in Germany for more than three months. You will need to provide your passport or national ID card, your rental agreement or proof of ownership of your accommodation, and a completed registration form. The registration office will issue you with a confirmation of registration (Anmeldebestätigung), which is required for many administrative procedures in Germany.
- Open a Bank Account:
Opening a bank account in Germany is highly recommended, as it is necessary for many daily transactions and for receiving your salary. You will need to provide proof of address and identification, such as your passport and the confirmation of registration. Most banks offer free checking accounts, and some may require a minimum deposit to open an account.
- Apply for a Tax Identification Number:
If you plan to work in Germany, you must apply for a tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer) from the Federal Central Tax Office (Bundeszentralamt für Steuern). This is a unique 11-digit number that is required for all tax-related activities, including paying taxes, filing tax returns, and receiving social security benefits. You can apply for a tax identification number online or by visiting a local tax office.
- Obtain Health Insurance:
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany, and you must obtain coverage within three months of arriving in the country. If you are employed in Germany, you will be automatically enrolled in statutory health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) through your employer. If you are self-employed or earn above a certain income threshold, you may be eligible for private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung). In either case, it is important to choose a health insurance provider that suits your needs and budget.
- Enroll Your Children in School:
If you have school-aged children, you must enroll them in a local school within two weeks of arriving in Germany. Education is compulsory for all children between the ages of six and 16, and there are both public and private schools available. You will need to provide your child’s birth certificate, confirmation of registration, and any previous school records.
- Apply for a Residence Permit:
If you are a non-EU citizen and plan to stay in Germany for more than 90 days, you must apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) from the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde). You will need to provide your passport, confirmation of registration, proof of health insurance, and evidence of financial means to support yourself during your stay. The application process can take several weeks, so it is recommended to apply as soon as possible after arriving in Germany.
In conclusion, there are several mandatory things that you have to do after arriving in Germany to ensure that you are legally authorized to stay in the country, and to access essential services and benefits. These include registering your residence, opening a bank account, applying for a tax identification number, obtaining health insurance, enrolling your children in school, and applying for a residence permit (if applicable). It is important to complete these tasks as soon as possible after arriving in Germany to avoid any legal issues and to settle into your new life in Germany smoothly.