Moving to Germany checklist: Secure long-term visa if necessary. Understand German healthcare system. Open a local bank account. Register residence at Einwohnermeldeamt. Obtain health insurance coverage. Familiarize with German recycling rules. Learn basic German language phrases. Get a German SIM card. Review local customs and etiquette. Understand German tax obligations.
Secure long-term visa if necessary.
To secure a long-term visa in Germany, US citizens must apply for a German National Visa (Type D visa) if they plan to stay more than 90 days. Applicants need to provide documents such as a valid passport, proof of health insurance, evidence of financial stability, and specific documents related to their purpose, whether it be for work, study, family reunion, or another legitimate reason. For further information on how to apply, you can visit the German National Visa page which details all necessary requirements and steps involved in the process.
Understand German healthcare system.
In Germany, health insurance is compulsory and can be obtained through either Statutory Health Insurance (SHI), which covers about 89% of the population, or substitutive Private Health Insurance (PHI) for those above a certain income threshold. The system is decentralized, with governance shared between federal and state levels, and it includes a broad benefits basket with low out-of-pocket costs and a strong emphasis on solidarity and equal access to care. For a comprehensive overview of the country's health system, refer to the Germany Health System Summary 2022 available on the World Health Organization’s EuroHealth Observatory website.
Open a local bank account.
To open a bank account in Germany, you need a valid passport or ID, a residence permit or visa, proof of address (Meldebescheinigung), and sometimes proof of income or employment. It is important to note that you may need to visit a bank branch or utilize online services with identity verification methods such as PostIdent. For a more detailed overview of the process, visit the article on Opening a Bank Account in Germany which offers comprehensive guidance.
Register residence at Einwohnermeldeamt.
To register your residence in Germany, you must visit the local Residents' Registration Office ("Einwohnermeldeamt" or "Bürgeramt") within two weeks of moving, bringing documents such as proof of identity, a completed registration form, and a proof of residence certificate ("Wohnungsgeberbestätigung"). This registration is mandatory for all residents, including both German nationals and foreign nationals, and is necessary for various administrative tasks like obtaining a residence permit, opening a bank account, and enrolling in school. For more detailed guidance, you can refer to the Handbook Germany website for comprehensive instructions and support.
Obtain health insurance coverage.
To obtain health insurance in Germany, expats must choose between statutory public health insurance (GKV) or private health insurance (PKV), with GKV being mandatory for most residents and PKV available for those exceeding a certain income threshold or specific professions. Expats must register with a health insurance provider, with employers typically handling the registration for employed individuals, while self-employed individuals must register independently. For more detailed information, visit the Schengen Insurance Info website, which provides comprehensive guidance on navigating the health insurance landscape in Germany.
Familiarize with German recycling rules.
In Germany, recycling involves using multiple color-coded bins: blue for paper and cardboard, yellow or orange for plastic and metal containers, brown for biodegradable goods, grey for non-recyclable items, and separate bins for glass. It is crucial to dispose of waste loosely, without using plastic bags, and to follow specific guidelines for each type of waste to ensure proper recycling. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of how to sort trash in Germany, you can visit the detailed guide provided by All About Berlin, which explains the nuances of the recycling system and helps residents and visitors alike contribute to effective waste management.
Learn basic German language phrases.
To facilitate your move to Germany, learning basic German phrases is crucial. This resource provides essential phrases categorized into greetings, introductions, and practical situations like transportation and shopping, helping you connect with German speakers and navigate everyday life in Germany. Explore the StoryLearning website to discover these valuable phrases and enhance your German language skills effectively.
Get a German SIM card.
To get a German SIM card, you need to provide valid ID and proof of address in Germany. You can choose between a prepaid SIM card or a mobile contract, with options available from various operators including Telekom, Vodafone, and discount stores like Aldi and Lidl. For a detailed guide on the process, Expatica provides comprehensive information on obtaining a SIM card in Germany, making your transition smoother and more informed.
Review local customs and etiquette.
Reviewing local customs and etiquette in Germany involves understanding the importance of formality, punctuality, and respect for personal space. Key aspects include proper greetings, maintaining personal space, following strict dining manners, and adhering to public transportation and street crossing rules. For more detailed insights, visit German Etiquette to navigate these social norms effectively and make a positive impression during your interactions.
Understand German tax obligations.
To understand German tax obligations, you must file a German individual tax return (Einkommensteuererklarung) if you are a tax resident, which is determined by residing in Germany or spending more than 183 days there. German taxes include progressive income tax rates up to 45%, a solidarity surcharge, and possibly a church tax, with deadlines and filing requirements that must be coordinated with US Tax Obligations.