FindMyKiez

Moving to Berlin Checklist

Your Progress

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Track your move to Berlin with this checklist. Your progress is saved automatically.

Before Moving to Berlin

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  • Apply for appropriate visa/residence permit
  • Secure a job or have sufficient funds
  • Find temporary or permanent housing

    Use FindMyKiez to locate your ideal neighborhood

  • Get health insurance

    Health insurance is mandatory in Germany

  • Prepare and translate important documents

    Birth certificate, marriage certificate, diplomas, etc.

  • Give notice at your current residence
  • Arrange shipping or storage of belongings
  • Notify your bank about your move
  • Arrange for pet transportation and paperwork (if applicable)

First Week in Berlin

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  • Register your address (Anmeldung)

    Must be done within 14 days of moving

  • Open a German bank account
  • Get a German SIM card or phone plan
  • Purchase a public transportation pass
  • Locate nearby grocery stores and pharmacies
  • Set up internet in your apartment
  • Apply for a tax ID (Steueridentifikationsnummer)

First Month in Berlin

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  • Find a doctor and dentist
  • Get liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung)

    Highly recommended in Germany

  • Register for broadcast fees (Rundfunkbeitrag)
  • Enroll in German language courses

    Important for integration and job opportunities

  • Set up utilities in your name (if not included in rent)
  • Learn about garbage disposal and recycling system

    Germany has strict recycling rules

  • Join local community groups or meetups

Settling In

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  • Learn about tax return requirements
  • Understand the pension system
  • Exchange your driving license (if applicable)
  • Set up automatic payments for regular bills
  • Learn emergency numbers and nearby emergency services
  • Explore different neighborhoods and cultural offerings
  • Consider an integration course

Moving to Berlin Tips

  • It's best to start your visa application process as early as possible.
  • Finding an apartment in Berlin can be challenging. Consider temporary housing when you first arrive.
  • The Anmeldung (address registration) is one of the most important first steps - you need it for almost everything else.
  • Learn at least basic German phrases to help with everyday situations.
  • Berlin has an excellent public transport system - consider whether you really need a car.
  • Different neighborhoods (Kieze) have very different atmospheres - use our neighborhood finder to discover the perfect area for you.