Arrived in Germany. Now what?
Moving countries is exciting, but let’s be honest, it can also feel like stepping into a maze of paperwork, systems, and unfamiliar rules. This space is here to guide you through those first crucial steps: from getting registered and understanding residence permits, to navigating transport, healthcare, finances, and daily life.
One step at a time, with solid information you can trust—so you can stop stressing and start settling in.
If you already know which town or city you’ll be living in, it’s well worth getting in touch with the local Welcome Centre. These centres are designed to help newcomers find their feet and can offer guidance on registration, residence matters, and everyday life in Germany. They can help with general guidance on registering in Germany, residence permits, working and living in the region, local services, and practical next steps for newcomers. They cannot complete registrations or applications for you, make official decisions, or replace authorities such as the Bürgeramt or Ausländerbehörde.
Below are Welcome Centres for some of Germany’s major cities:
What can I bring into Germany It is very tempting to bring some South African goodies with you when you travel to Germany, and while most items are allowed, there are Restrictions. There is also a limit on duty-free allowances. Zollamt
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine This page is dedicated to helping you make the best choices when it comes to planning your travels. We have information about
General travel Tips – Flying When it comes to travelling, especially by air, taking precautions and planning ahead is key to ensuring a smooth journey. Here are some general travel tips that can come in handy during your next flight!
Driving in Germany Germany is a beautiful country known for its scenic drive routes, bustling cities, and rich culture. If you are planning to own a car in this country or drive here, there are some important things that you
Public transport in Germany The German public transport system is extensive, reliable and very affordable. The Deutsche Bahn AG is the national railway company and is state-owned. The DB offers long distance, regional and local travel options.Here is a list of
“Traveling to Germany is like stepping into a storybook, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes weave a tale you’ll never forget.” If you’re planning a trip to Germany, we’ve got some travel tips that we think you’ll find incredibly helpful.
Checklist after arriving in Germany Your first days in Germany can be very overwhelming and confusing. The forms you must fill in and the administrative tasks you must do will depend on your reason for being in Germany. A student
If you plan to stay in Germany for longer than 3 months, you will need to register at your local Bürgeramt (Town office).This is called a Meldepflicht and is compulsory. More about the law can be found in BMG (in German) or in EnglishIt must
Residence permits in Germany A Visa allows you to enter Germany and stay for no more than 90 days in a 180-day cycle.When you want to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for
Applying for residence in Germany A visa allows you to enter Germany, but if your stay will exceed 90 days, you’ll need to take the next step and apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis).Most long-term stays begin with a national
Temporary proof of German Residence To stay in Germany longer than 90 days in a 180 period, you will need a residence permit. Qualifying for a residence permit will depend, among other things, on the type of visa you applied
Master the Language. Embrace the Culture. Embarking on the journey to learn German can be approached in various ways to suit your lifestyle and goals. Online platforms offer the convenience of flexible language courses, while mobile apps make learning easy
Our health pages at a glance
The most important financial topics for daily life in Germany Income Tax Information about taxes and where to find assistance Pensions How does the German state pensions work, what can you do to supplement your pension Foreign Exchange- ZAR to
Waste disposal and recycling This is a general guide to waste disposal and recycling. Recycling and waste disposal rules can vary by town, so it’s essential to check the specific regulations in your area, like how bulky waste is collected.
Useful apps Having the correct information available when you need it is priceless. Here are some apps that can make your life easier in Germany. Note that for most, we did not add links to the apps, as it is
General school information Take note that Home Schooling is not allowed. German Vocational training Interested in doing Vocational Training (Ausbildung) in Germany?Germany is one of the best providers of Vocational Training. German Vocational training All the information you need to
Minijobs and hired help Are you looking for services like cleaning, someone to look after the kids or help out with the gardening?The sites we list here are currently only available in German. You have the option to hire someone
South African Communities Find your people. Find your place. Living far from home can be lonely — but it doesn’t have to be. Across Germany, South Africans are gathering in churches, online groups, events, and everyday conversations. This page brings
🎧 Bringing the Beat of Mzansi to Germany Missing the rhythm of home? From the soulful hum of Afrikaans ballads to high-energy Kwaito beats and morning talk shows packed with that unmistakable South African flavour, online radio stations stream it
Staying Connected, No Matter the Distance Living far from home changes how we connect — but it doesn’t weaken the bond. As South Africans abroad, we learn to stay close through screens, shared moments, and a bit of creativity. We
Back home, you know exactly in what shop to look for specific items, where to find quality products and what shops have cheaper options.We tried to make a comparison of SA and German shops in the list below. You welcome
Products we love We all miss familiar products we loved in South Africa. Some of these you can buy here in Germany, and for some, you will have to find a suitable substitute. Grocery Items The following shops sell South
Streaming South African content A little screen-time comfort, done the right way. When homesickness hits, familiar voices, accents, and stories can feel like a warm blanket. The good news? You can legally watch some South African content in Germany —
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