Bureaucracy Checklists

Relocation & Bureaucracy Checklists

Step-by-step interactive checklists for all essential German authorities. Your progress is saved automatically.

1. Anmeldung (City Registration at Bürgeramt)

⏳ Within 14 days of moving in

0/5

Book an appointment (Termin) on the Bürgeramt portal

💡 Tip: Check at 8:00 AM daily when cancelled slots are released

Get the signed Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation)

💡 Rental contract alone is not enough; this official form is required

Prepare your passport and valid visa

Fill out the registration application form (Anmeldeformular)

Attend appointment and receive your Meldebestätigung certificate

💡 Keep this safe! You will need it for banks, insurance, and residency

⏳ Immediately after city registration

0/3

Choose a bank (N26 / C24 online, or traditional Sparkasse / DKB)

Complete identity verification via passport (VideoIdent or in branch)

Receive your German IBAN and share with your employer for salary

⏳ Before your first day of work or study

0/4

Choose an insurance provider (e.g. Techniker Krankenkasse - TK)

Apply online with your passport and work contract

Send the membership certificate (Mitgliedsbescheinigung) to employer

Upload photo and receive your chip card (elektronische Gesundheitskarte)

⏳ Arrives automatically by post 2-4 weeks after Anmeldung

0/3

Ensure your full surname is on your mailbox (Briefkasten)

💡 If your name is missing, the letter containing your Steuer-ID will bounce!

Receive official letter with your 11-digit Steuer-ID number

Provide Steuer-ID to payroll (otherwise you are taxed at highest Class 6)

⏳ 6-8 weeks before your entry national visa D expires

0/3

Book an appointment at the Ausländerbehörde / immigration office

Prepare biometric photo, recent pay slips (Gehaltsabrechnungen), and rent contract

Get completed "Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis" from employer

⏳ When the first letter arrives (18.36€ per month per household)

0/3

Ask flatmates if someone in the apartment is already paying

If someone pays: submit their Beitragsnummer on your reply form

If living alone: register online and set up direct debit (SEPA Lastschrift)