Living in Germany 101: The first few months abroad

Are you new to Germany or planning to arrive soon? Congratulations!

The first few months can be exciting, sometimes a little chaotic, but definitely unforgettable.
Here you’ll find the most important basics to help you start your new life in Germany well-prepared.

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Public Authorities and Documents

• Clarify your residence status: If you are coming from a non-EU country, you must apply for a visa before entering Germany. After your arrival, you can get your residence permit at the Foreigners’ Office. More information is available here.
• Register your address: If you’re moving to Germany from abroad, the deadline to register at the Bürgeramt ((Registration Office) depends on where you’re coming from (but you need to have a place to stay first). You will receive a registration certificate (important for: tax ID, bank account, mobile phone contract, work).
• Important tip: Book your appointment early – the slots fill up quickly. Often, you can do this online through the official website of your city or municipality.

 

Living & Everyday Life

• Finding accommodation: Options include shared apartments, rented apartments, student dormitories, or even a hostel for the first few days. After that, you will need to register your address (see Authorities & Documents). Check out our accommodation offers.
• Keep an eye on costs: Rent + incidentals (heating, water, electricity, internet).
• Everyday life in the apartment: Follow waste separation rules, respect rest periods (e.g., at noon, in the evening, or on Sundays), and pay the monthly broadcasting fee for public broadcasting (the fee notice will be sent by post).
• Smartphone & Internet: Get a SIM card or a cell phone contract/ internet flat rate.
• Shopping & drugstores: Supermarkets (Aldi, Rewe, Lidl…) and drugstores (dm, Rossmann). Please note: almost all shops are closed on Sundays!

 

Finances & Work

• Open a bank account: You can do this as soon as you have registered. This is important for your job, rent, and everyday payments.
• Earn money: For example with a mini-job, a student job, or a part-time job.
• Plan your living expenses: Keep track of costs for rent, food, transportation, mobile phone, and insurance.

 

Health & Insurance

• Get insured: This is mandatory in Germany (statutory or private). Without insurance, you will not be granted a visa or residence permit, so it’s best to get insured before entering the country. We offer suitable insurance plans for students.
• Find a general practitioner: Your first point of contact for health issues. They will refer you to specialists if necessary.
• Use pharmacies correctly: Prescription medications are only available with a doctor’s prescription. Over-the-counter medications can be purchased directly from pharmacies.
• Know the emergency numbers: 112 → Emergency number for the fire department and ambulance service, 116 117 → Medical on-call service.

 

Mobility & Transportation

• Use public transportation: Düsseldorf has a well-developed network of buses, trams, suburban trains and undergrounds. You need a ticket for every trip. For regular trips, the Deutschlandticket (monthly, valid on all local transportation in Germany) or, for students, the semester ticket are great options.
• Cycling: Düsseldorf has many cycle paths. With bike-sharing, you can conveniently rent a bike without having to own one.

 

Language & Integration

• Learning German: Very important for work, study, and making new friends. You can practice with our language courses, use German in everyday situations (e.g., at the supermarket, at the doctor’s, or when talking to neighbours), or use apps. You can find more helpful tips in our blog posts.

 

Social Life & Orientation

• Get to know the culture: Read testimonials and our blog posts. Pay attention to typical German habits, such as punctuality, direct communication, rules, and order.
• Integration into everyday life: Be open, ask questions and share experiences. Explore your surroundings, such as supermarkets, public transportation, or meeting places.
• Making contacts: Through hobbies, sports, or events at the Studienkolleg. Talk to neighbours and fellow students.
• Getting help: We can assist with questions about housing, insurance or study programs. https://studienkolleg-duesseldorf.de/contact-location/?lang=en

 

 

All of this can feel overwhelming at first – but don’t worry: a little culture shock is completely         normal.😊 Once you’ve sorted out all the important things, you’ll settle in quickly.

We wish you lots of fun and success on your new adventure in Germany!
With our support, you’re never alone. We’ll help you get settled quickly and safely! ✨