Every German city has the same offices under slightly different names, and the order of the first steps is the same everywhere. If your city has its own guide, it adds the local booking links and details. See our city guides.
The order that works
- 1
Day 1: data and transport
Get mobile data working (an eSIM you installed before flying is fastest) and buy a transport ticket. A Deutschlandticket covers all local transport.
- 2
Days 1 to 3: book the Bürgeramt
Book your registration appointment as soon as you have an address. See How Anmeldung works.
- 3
First week: open a bank account
Online banks open accounts with your passport and a video check. See Opening a bank account.
- 4
Within 14 days: register your address
Attend the Bürgeramt appointment with your passport and landlord confirmation.
- 5
After registration: the immigration office
If you need a residence permit, book the Ausländerbehörde appointment before your visa expires. See Your residence permit appointment.
- 6
Weeks 2 to 4: the letters arrive
Your tax ID, the Rundfunkbeitrag letter and your health insurance card come by post. Put your name on the letterbox.
The offices, whatever they're called locally
| Office | Also called | What for |
|---|---|---|
| Bürgeramt | Bürgerbüro, Kundenzentrum, Einwohnermeldeamt | Registering your address |
| Ausländerbehörde | Immigration office, Landesamt für Einwanderung, Welcome Center | Residence permits and extensions |
| Finanzamt | Tax office | Tax returns and tax questions |
| Studierendenwerk | Student services | Student halls, cafeterias, financial advice |
Track Anmeldung in HomeSettled
HomeSettled orders these steps by your arrival date and shows the next one that's due.
Common questions
My city isn't in your city guides. What's different?
Mostly the booking pages and the name of the immigration office. Search for "Wohnsitz anmelden" plus your city name to find the booking page. Smaller towns often have shorter waiting times than big cities.
Sources
Rules and amounts change. Check the official source before you rely on a figure.