Here’s the complete checklist to help you move to Germany

Are you thinking of moving to Germany? Our ultimate checklist will make your move to Germany easier.

Germany is becoming a popular destination for expats around the globe. There are many job opportunities in Germany, Europe’s largest country. There’s something for everyone, from the trendy Berlin to Frankfurt, Europe’s financial capital, there are plenty of options.

There are some things you need to know if you plan on moving to Germany. These issues include everything from motoring laws to immigration requirements. Here’s our checklist to help you prepare for your move to Germany.

Do your research

What images do you have in mind when you think of Germany? Are you picturing fairytale castles? Perhaps it’s the lively beer gardens that hum to the beat of an oompah band. It doesn’t matter what you imagine, it is important to find out about everyday life in Germany before you move to Germany. Germany is generally a welcoming country and is very accommodating to expats. Its history has created huge regional differences in the cost of living and economic opportunities. This is something you should consider when moving to Germany.

Our guides will give you an idea about what you can expect in your new home.

• Living costs in Germany
• Germany facts: geography and people
• Germany at a Glance:

Arrange your visa

Are you familiar with the German immigration requirements that apply to you and your family members? Germany is an EU member country, which means that EU/EFTA citizens can enter the country and stay there without requiring a visa. All EU/EFTA residents who stay longer than three months must register with their local government. The German immigration system is more restrictive for non-EU/EFTA citizens. The requirements for non-EU/EFTA nationals are different, so make sure to read our guide to German visas, permits to learn what you will need.

Transport your belongings

It is important to know how your belongings will be transported to Germany if you are moving to Germany. Many expats hire relocations experts to assist them. This can be stressful. You have many options, including full-service relocation agencies and digital logistics platforms that allow you to easily compare international shipping markets.

Relocation experts can assist you in every aspect of your move to Germany. They will help you pack up all your belongings and find you the perfect home. Some expats prefer to use a global logistics company for their move to Germany. There are many options when it comes to moving to Germany.

• Crown Relocations
• The Relocator
• ReloAdvisor
• Sirelo

You can have peace of mind when you are dealing with international shipping. To avoid last-minute surprises, plan ahead. You can find out more about these services by reading our guide to relocation options to move to Germany.

Take control of your finances

It is important to know what your financial situation is in Germany before you move. This will ensure that your family can afford to live and work there. It is a smart idea to know the cost per day in Germany so you can plan accordingly. This covers both short-term and long-term financial management.

• Bank accounts: Before you travel, research your options for banking. This includes retail banks as well as mobile banking options. You may be able to open a mobile banking account even before you arrive. You can find more information in our guide to opening bank accounts in Germany.
• Pensions, taxes, and investments: Can you transfer your pension to Germany? Your relocation could have an impact on your investments. Check out our guide to taxes and our guide on the pension scheme in Germany to find out before you move.
• Insurance: No matter what your needs are, ensure that your family has the right protection by arranging insurance premiums before you move. For more information, see our guide to German insurance.

You may need to send money abroad quickly and easily to help you cover your short-term finances. These international money transfer options will help you do this:

• CurrencyFair allows money transfers to more than 150 countries. They offer exchange rates up eight times lower than banks and help you avoid paying excessive bank fees.
• Moneycorp provides global payment and foreign exchange services to individuals and businesses in more than 120 currencies.
• Wise provides international money transfers. This service is available in 59 nations and allows transfers between cross-border accounts for up to eight times less than traditional banks.

You can also use Monito’s online comparison tool for savings, the best exchange rates and the cheapest international money transfer option.

Move your vehicle

Are you a dreamer of driving your car on Germany’s famous autobahn? You should read the local motoring laws first if this is your dream. It is important to consider whether you will actually use your car after you settle in. There are many cities in Germany that have great public transport links and the cycling infrastructure is improving. If you are planning to drive your car in Germany , we have the guide for you.

Take good care of your pet

Germans love their pets, from Alsatians to Dachshunds. If you have a four-legged friend, make sure they are able to move in with you. Germany might have restrictions that you are unfamiliar with. Make sure to check early to avoid disappointment and delays later. You can find more information in our guide on bringing your pet to Germany.

Get your health insurance in place

When moving to Germany, it is important to have health insurance. Germany is home to one of Europe’s most well-funded public healthcare systems. However, residents have the option of private or public coverage depending on their specific needs.

Many expats choose private health insurance to provide peace of mind for their loved ones. You can take the stress out finding coverage by researching different insurance providers before you move.

• Allianz
• Cigna Global
• SafetyWing

Our guide to health insurance in Germany provides more information about getting German coverage.

Find a place where you can live

Although you might not be able afford a castle, there are still many housing options. Germany offers everything you could want, from mountain chalets to apartments in the city centre and everything in between. You can find more information in our guides to renting a house in Germany or buying your home in Germany.

Look for a job

Many expats will move to Germany if they have a job opportunity. Many others will move to Germany, but they are still searching for work. Expats have many job options in Germany. There are many job opportunities in Germany, but they will differ from one region to the next. It is worth doing your research before you go. Find out more about finding work in Germany .

Consider schooling and childcare options

You will want to arrange your children’s schooling if you are moving to Germany with your family. Although the German education system is regarded as one of Europe’s best, it’s important to be prepared.

Are you happy for your children to go to a local school? Perhaps you prefer your children to attend an international school. All these are questions that you will need to answer. This guide will help you understand the German education system.

Learn the language

It is important to learn German if you are moving to Germany. English is not spoken widely in Germany so it’s important to learn German in order to integrate and find work. Before you move, enroll in German tuition that meets your needs. You can also use an app to learn German online.

Your first week in Germany

Are you ready to move into your new home? All you need to do now is get started once you arrive in Germany. You can find helpful advice in our guide to things you can do in Germany during your first week.

Do you have questions about Germany? then contact us by using our Contact Me page. Checkout more posts by us on our Blog.