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 will have a different to-do list from someone who comes here to work.
The following lists the general things that everyone needs to do.

Arriving at the airport

The only direct flights between SA and Germany are from Frankfurt to Johannesburg and Cape Town. Some carriers have seasonal flights between Munich and Jhb/Cpt.
The major airports in Germany are Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, Berlin and Düsseldorf.
Almost all towns can be reached via train from airport hubs. Other options to get to your destinations are an organised airport transfer or hiring a car via a car rental company or mobility companies like Car2Go. More information can be found in the Mobility section below.

Public Transport System: A Guide to S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and Trams

Explore Germany with Ease: Mastering Public Transport – The Basics Discover how to navigate the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and trams like a local and enjoy stress-free travel across Germany’s cities. This guide does not cover the Regional and Intercity trains Getting Around Germany’s Cities Germany boasts one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world, making it easy for locals and newcomers alike to get around. For newcomers to the country, deciphering the network

Public transport in Germany

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 PDF Files with the route maps in German Long distance trains Long-distance trains offer fast and convenient connections between major cities. The following types of trains are available for long-distance travel: ICE – InterCity Express. These are high-speed

Travel to Germany – Tips

“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. If you’ve got your own tips to share, we’d love to hear them! Simply submit them to us and we’ll be happy to include them on the page. Direct Fligts The major airports in Germany are Frankfurt,

Bringing your Furbabies with you

Pets – Personal stories

Here are some shared experiences by our Facebook members. If you would like to add your experience to our website, please submit it via our contact form December 2022 I did DIY from Pretoria to Jhb to Cape Town to Frankfurt on 24 December. Both dogs were in the cargo hold for both flights.DIY can only be done from CPT airport, which is why that flight was added. It means your dogs fly as excess

Pets

Pets Bringing your fur babies to a new country is both exciting and emotional Moving pets from South Africa to Germany comes with its own set of rules, and they can change often. That’s why we’ve gathered up-to-date links to official guidelines so you can be sure you’re working with the latest information. We’ve also included trusted pet immigration services recommended by fellow South Africans, plus a section where people share their do-it-yourself success stories—perfect

Remember you have to go through customs, so make sure you know what you are allowed to bring with you.

What can I bring into Germany

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 Germany’s customs authority is known as the Zollamt, and they take their job seriously. The information below is especially relevant to travellers coming from South Africa (or any country outside the Schengen Area). If you’re

Arrival at your home

One of the biggest surprises you can get is walking into your new home and there is no kitchen installed, nor light fittings. Make sure you know what to expect if you rent accommodation.
Germany uses type C and F power plugs, make sure you have the correct adaptors or plugs.

Housing in Germany

Housing in Germany Finding a home in Germany means learning a new kind of language — one spoken in bricks, beams, and balcony railings. A charming Altbauwohnung with vintage flair, a bright Penthouse floating above the city, or a snug Einliegerwohnung tucked into a family home — each space tells its own story. This page guides you through the many housing types you’ll come across in Germany. Some are steeped in history, others designed for

Finding a place to stay

Finding a place to rent Finding a place to rent in Germany is a lot like going for a job interview — you need to sell yourself, make a great impression, and show that you’re reliable.The key? Go in prepared, paperwork in hand, and confidence on your face. Documents needed Be prepared — landlords in Germany are thorough! You’ll typically need to provide the following: 🔍 SCHUFA Report (Credit Check)Shows your creditworthiness and payment history

Registering (Anmeldung)

You must register at your local town hall (Bürgeramt) within two weeks of arriving in Germany. This is called a Meldepflicht. You will be issued a registration confirmation (Anmeldebescheinigung). Keep it in a safe place, but in the event of loss, you can re-apply for it at the Bürgeramt.
In smaller towns, the Bürgeramt and Ausländerbehörde could be in the same building.

Registering at the Local Town Office

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 be done within two weeks after moving into your residence. ” Anyone who moves into a residence shall register with the registration authorities within two weeks of moving in. (2) Anyone who moves out of a residence

Medical Insurance

Medical insurance is compulsory. If you do not already have medical insurance, you need to organise it before applying for your residence permit. You need proof of medical insurance before you can apply for a residence permit

Medical

Health Insurance in Germany: A Guide for South Africans In Germany, health insurance (Krankenversicherung) isn’t a choice — it’s a legal requirement for every resident, and a prerequisite for obtaining your Aufenthaltstitel (residence permit).Before you can truly settle in, this is one of the very first boxes you’ll need to tick. When you earn less

Residence permit

A visa allows you to travel to Germany. When you want to stay longer than 3 months you need to apply for the correct visa in your home country and then for a residence permit in Germany. You apply for your residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde. You need your registration confirmation (Anmeldebescheinigung) before you can apply for residence.
In smaller towns, the Bürgeramt and Ausländerbehörde could be in the same building.
Permanent Residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) is only available after living in Germany for s specific time. Your first residence as a South African citizen in Germany will always be temporary.

Temporary Residence

Temporary Residence A Visa allows you to enter Germany, but your stay is limited to no more than 90 days in a 180-day cycle.If you want to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for the correct visa in your home country. Once in Germany, you must apply for the subsequent residence permit (Aufenhaltstitel) at the competent Aliens Authority in Germany. It will also regulate what you are allowed to do in

Applying for residence

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 visa (Type D), usually valid for 90 days. Within that time, you’re expected to transition to a residence permit that matches the purpose of your stay, whether it’s for work, study, or family reunification. Don’t

Permanent Residence

A permanent residence in Germany is called a Niederlassungserlaubnis and may be granted as a Settlement permit or Permanent EC residence permit. Very important!! Your residence card has an expiration date that corresponds to your passport. Your residence card is linked to your passport number see the PASS field. See the remarks section on the card as well as nr. 7 below. Germany has a “Passpflicht” law. Photo Symbol for the electronic CHIP Surname and Names Your Aufenthalts number

Pension

You need a social security number to register for a statuary pension. A tip, if you are not employed when moving to Germany, for example joining as a spouse, consider registering at the Arbeitsagentür, as the time you are unemployed counts towards contribution years on your pension.

Sozialversicherung / Social Insurance

The following Social Insurances are payable in Germany when you are a full-time employee or trainee: Krankenvesicherung / Medical Insurance Plegeversicherung / Long Term care insurance. Nursing or home care Rentenversicherung / Pension insurance Unfallversicherung / Accident insurance – Should you become ill due to your profession you will be supported by the statutory accident insurance scheme. This will, for example, continue to pay your wages.It also assumes the cost for a further training course

Pension

Pensions in Germany The pension system in Germany can be complex, especially for foreigners. Employees, freelancers, and anyone planning for retirement all face different rules and responsibilities. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Homepage of the Deutsche Rentenversicherung The German state pension scheme provides valuable resources and services to help you navigate retirement planning. Foreign Language Support: Detailed information is available on their homepage for foreign languages. Comprehensive German Resources: For those

Bank Account

Depending on your situation, you will need to open a German Bank account.

Opening a Bank Account in Germany

Opening a Bank Account in Germany: What South Africans Need to Know Moving to Germany comes with its fair share of paperwork and protocol — and right near the top of your to-do list should be opening a local bank account. Whether you’re here to study, work, or start fresh, having a German bank account is

Internet and mobile

Internet, mobile and television packages are usually sold as a bundle.
Warning! Germany has very strict copyright laws. Do not violate copyright laws by illegally downloading a film, music, or other web content.

Acquaint yourself about what is allowed and what the penalties are for not adhering to the rules.
You can also be held responsible for any downloads in your household, also from visitors using your internet connection.

Internet, TV and mobile

Internet, Television and mobile Most providers in Germany offer bundled packages that combine internet, mobile, and television services. Fibre optic (Glasfaser) internet is Germany’s fastest and most modern option, available in many cities and larger towns. It offers blazing speeds for streaming, video calls, and remote work. In some areas, cable internet is more prevalent and offers decent speeds, especially when combined with TV. For those living outside urban centres, DSL remains the most widely

Downloading Music, Movies etc

Copyrights in Germany are governed by GEMA, a government-mandated collecting society and performance rights organization. GEMA: The Gesellschaft für musikalische Aufführungs- und mechanische Vervielfältigungsrechte, or in English, the society for musical performing and mechanical reproduction rights. Germany has stringent copyright laws.Do not violate copyright laws by illegally downloading a film, music, or other web content. Inform yourself about what is allowed and what the penalties are for not adhering to the rules.You can also be

Television Licenses

Television Licence (der Rundfunkbeitrag/GEZ-Gebühr) Television Licenses The first thing you are likely to get in your new mailbox after registering at the Bürgeramt is a reminder to pay your TV & radio broadcasting fees. The 2024 fees are €18.36 per month and can be paid quarterly (€55.08) or €220.32 per yearThe fee is mandatory. Every household in Germany has to pay the fee even if you do not own a TV or radio. It does not

Mobility

If you live in a big city you will rarely need your own car. The public transport system is excellent and there are many options to hire a car for a couple of hours. To drive in Germany you will need to convert your drivers licence

Car Insurance

A Guide to Vehicle Insurance in Germany: What You Need to Know Finding the best car insurance can be overwhelming, especially in a country known for its efficient roads and strict regulations. Choosing the right coverage for your vehicle is crucial. You cannot register your vehicle without having insurance. Types of Vehicle Insurance in German Germany offers three main types of vehicle insurance, each providing different levels of coverage: Haftpflichtversicherung Third-Party Liability Insurance This is the

Public transport in Germany

Road Rules

Road safety and Rules Driving on German roads is very well regulated, and if you don’t adhere to the rules, you will get penalty points against your name and hefty fines. Your licence can be suspended when you reach a certain number of points (currently 8). Ignorance of road rules is not an excuse. The ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club) website has the following information: a list of the Traffic signs – the descriptions are in German the

Driving and Driver’s licences

Your Guide to Driving Legally in Germany Visiting Germany: If you’re visiting for a short period, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid South African driver’s licence. You can apply for the IDP at the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA). Staying Longer: For stays longer than six months, you can drive legally in Germany using your South African licence and your IDP for the first six months (185 days from the

Useful apps

We have a page with a list of apps we think might helpful

Useful apps

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 a lot of work to maintain for all operating systems. Use the search function to search the apps Integration Integreat app – Digital Integration platform Arrive App from the Bundesagentur für Arbeit Residence card Ausweisapp2 –

Emergency Contacts

Emergency Contacts The following numbers can be dialled in an emergency, either from a landline or mobile phone. 112The national emergency number. This can be used for any medical or fire/smoke/explosives emergency. It can also be dialled when someone is trapped or if you have witnessed a suicide attempt 110The national police force. Call this number in case of attempted theft or damage. An assault or risk to life Instructions Dial and wait to be

Going to the Hairdresser

Going to the Hairdresser Need a trim, a tidy-up, or a total transformation? Before you sit in the stylist’s chair, you’ll need to navigate the basics—auf Deutsch. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through how to book a hair appointment in Germany, what to say when you arrive, and the phrases you’ll want in your back pocket The first time I went to a hairdresser’s in Germany, things got…

Visiting a doctor

Navigating Healthcare in Germany Visiting a doctor in Germany can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding how the system works will help you feel confident and prepared. When I first arrived in Germany, I was fortunate to travel back to South Africa frequently. I relied on that to manage my medical check-ups, avoiding visits to German doctors whenever possible. That strategy worked well—until I hurt my back and had no choice but to seek medical