Your First Week in Germany: Anmeldung, Bank, Tax ID & Insurance (2026)

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 1 October 2026

You've landed in Germany. Your visa is in your passport, but the paperwork isn't over yet. The first week decides how smoothly everything else goes. Here's what to do, step by step.

Step by step

1. 

   Register your address (Anmeldung)

   You must register at the local citizens' office, the Bürgeramt, within two weeks of moving into a flat. Book an appointment online as early as you can, because appointments in big cities can be hard to get.

   Bring your passport and a form from your landlord called the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung, which confirms you live there. Without it, you can't register. Missing the deadline can lead to a fine.

   Why is it so important? You get a registration certificate, the Meldebescheinigung. You need it for your bank account, your residence permit, and much more.

   Done

2. 

   Your tax ID

   After you register, the Federal Central Tax Office sends your tax identification number by post, usually within a few weeks. Your employer needs it, so keep the letter safe.

   Done

3. 

   A bank account

   You need a German or EU bank account for your salary, rent and contracts. Many online banks let you open one in a few minutes with your passport. Some need your registration certificate.

   Done

4. 

   Health insurance

   Health insurance is required in Germany. If you work, you're usually insured through a public health insurance fund that you choose. Your employer pays about half. Send your membership confirmation to your employer.

   Done

5. 

   A phone number

   Get a German SIM card early. Prepaid SIMs are easy and cheap. You'll need to verify your identity with your passport.

   Done

6. 

   Your residence permit

   If your visa is only valid for a short time, book an appointment at the foreigners' office, the Ausländerbehörde, to get your residence permit before the visa expires. Some cities take months, so don't wait.

   Done

Good to know

And one letter that surprises many people: the broadcasting fee. Every household pays it, eighteen euros and thirty six cents a month in twenty twenty six. If you share a flat, only one person pays.

In short: Register your address within two weeks, keep your tax ID letter, open a bank account, sort your health insurance, get a SIM card, and book the foreigners' office early.