Moving to Germany is one of the best decisions you can make — but without a clear plan, it can feel overwhelming. Between visas, blocked accounts, apartment hunting, and health insurance, there is a lot to figure out. This guide breaks it all down into 7 clear steps so you know exactly what to do and when.
Step 1: Figure Out Which Visa You Need
Germany does not have one universal visa — the right one depends on why you are coming. The most common options for non-EU nationals are:
- Job Seeker Visa - Gives you 6 months to find a job in Germany. No job offer required upfront.
- Work Visa / EU Blue Card - For those who already have a job offer. The Blue Card is ideal if your salary meets the threshold (around 45,300 EUR/year in 2025).
- Student Visa - If you are enrolled in a German university or language course.
- Freelance / Self-Employment Visa - For entrepreneurs and remote workers.
Apply at the German embassy in your home country. Processing times vary from 4 to 12 weeks, so start early.
Step 2: Open a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)
If you are applying for a student or job seeker visa, you need to prove you can financially support yourself. The standard way is through a blocked account (Sperrkonto). You deposit around 11,208 EUR (2025 rate) into a special account and can only withdraw a fixed monthly amount once in Germany. Popular providers: Fintiba, Expatrio, Deutsche Bank. Open it at least 4-6 weeks before your visa appointment.
Step 3: Find a Place to Live
The German rental market in cities like Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg is extremely competitive. Apartments go fast — sometimes within hours of listing. You will need a rental debt-free certificate from your last landlord, proof of income, and a strong cover letter (Anschreiben). Use ImmobilienScout24, WG-Gesucht (shared flats), and Immowelt. Apply to as many listings as possible and respond immediately.
Pro tip: Book a short-term rental or Airbnb for your first 4-6 weeks so you have time to find something permanent after arriving.
Step 4: Register Your Address (Anmeldung)
Within 14 days of moving in, you must register at the local Buergeramt (citizens office). This Anmeldung is one of the most important steps — almost everything else depends on it. With your Meldebescheinigung (registration confirmation) you can open a bank account, apply for your residence permit, get your tax ID, and sign up for health insurance. Book your appointment early — slots fill up weeks in advance in major cities.
Step 5: Get Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. There are two systems:
- Public (GKV) - Income-based premiums. Providers include TK, AOK, and Barmer. This is what most expats use.
- Private (PKV) - Available to high earners and self-employed. More flexible but can get expensive with age.
Most expats and students should start with public insurance. It is simpler and covers everything you need.
Step 6: Open a German Bank Account
You will need a German bank account for salary, rent, and everything else. You will need your passport and Anmeldung confirmation to open one. The fastest options for expats:
- N26 - 100% online, English-friendly, no branch visits needed.
- DKB - Free account, widely accepted.
- Commerzbank / Deutsche Bank - Traditional options with physical branches.
Step 7: Learn Basic German
You do not need fluency to get by, especially in major cities where English is common. But even A2-B1 level German will open doors with employers and landlords. Resources: Goethe Institut for official courses, Deutsche Welle for free online learning, and Duolingo or Anki for daily practice.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Germany is absolutely doable — thousands of people do it every year. Start early, get your paperwork in order, and take it one step at a time. If you need personalized help with your CV, visa documents, or apartment search, GoGermany is here to support you every step of the way.