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Your situation

Checklist for your first days after moving

Selected criteria

  1. I’m already preparing to move
  2. Prepare for the first days
  3. Get a first-days checklist

This scenario helps turn your first days and weeks after moving into a clear order of action. First prepare the basis for your move, housing and your document set, then deal step by step with your address, residence status, insurance, bank account and phone connection. After the basic formalities, set up everyday life: shopping, medical care, transport and household routines. Do not try to do everything in one day: mark tasks as complete, keep proof and check requirements against your city and personal circumstances. Individual steps may differ for students, employees, families and self-employed people, so use the articles as practical guidance and check current conditions before contacting authorities or signing contracts.

Plan overview

A practical route from preparing your move to setting up everyday life in Germany.

What to do step by step

  1. 1

    Prepare your plan and documents before departure

    Define your relocation route, gather documents and plan your first administrative steps in advance.

    Articles for this step

    How to Prepare for Moving to Germany: A Checklist for Documents, Visas, and First Steps How to Prepare for Moving to Germany: Mistakes Best Avoided Mistakes When Moving to Germany: A Preparation Checklist
  2. 2

    Find housing and start registering your address

    Check whether you can register at the chosen address and book an Anmeldung appointment.

    Articles for this step

    The First 90 Days in Germany: A Checklist for Registration, Bank Accounts, Insurance, Doctors, and a Residence Permit First Steps After Moving to Germany: Registration, Residence Permit, Bank, Work, and Insurance
  3. 3

    Check your residence status

    After registering your address, clarify which actions and appointment are required for your residence status.

    Articles for this step

    First Steps After Moving to Germany: Registration, Residence Permit, Bank, Work, and Insurance The First 90 Days in Germany: A Checklist for Registration, Bank Accounts, Insurance, Doctors, and a Residence Permit
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6

    Learn everyday tasks near home

    Understand shopping, waste sorting and practical ways to set up your home.

    Articles for this step

    Shops in Germany: Where to Buy Groceries, Clothing and Household Goods How to sort waste in Germany: bins, Pfand, and special waste 7 Everyday Life Hacks for Living in Germany
  7. 7

Important notes

  • Requirements for your first steps depend on your city and status.
  • Do not delay booking your address registration appointment.
  • Sorting rules may differ by place of residence.

Common mistakes

  • Delaying address registration
  • Gathering documents from random sources
  • Not planning your first actions after entry