What paperwork do you need after moving to Germany in 2026?

Complete Anmeldung at the Bürgeramt or Meldebehörde within two weeks of moving into your home. Bring the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung from the housing provider; a lease alone is not enough in most offices. Book early in Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt because slots sell out.

After registration, wait for the Steueridentifikationsnummer letter from the Federal Central Tax Office: Get a tax ID. Buy a prepaid SIM with passport ID so banks and employers can SMS you: Get a mobile phone. Open a Girokonto, then hand the tax ID and health membership to payroll: Open a bank account and Choose health insurance.

Non-EU stays usually need a residence title appointment at the local Ausländerbehörde on the path your visa named: Apply for a residence permit. Register the household Rundfunkbeitrag once you have an address: Register the broadcasting contribution. Employment triggers social-security enrolment through the employer: Get a social security number.

Exchange or convert a foreign driving licence before local deadlines bite: Convert a driving licence. Find a Hausarzt before you need a sick note: Register with a GP. Set up Mein ELSTER after the tax ID arrives if you expect a return or freelance filings: Set up ELSTER. Import a car through the Zulassungsstelle, claim Kindergeld at the Familienkasse, and clear pet entry rules before the crate flies: Register a vehicle, Apply for Kindergeld, and Bring pets. Housing proof starts earlier: How to rent a home.