Tips for Living in Germany

You’ve just arrived in Germany, where you’ll be beginning a new job or semester at university, and your brand-new apartment is completely empty. You are going to require a bed, a bank account, and a German class (not necessarily in that order). Where do we even begin?!

This is a guide for newbies living in Germany, and it includes advice on what you need to do and know during your first few days there. The goal of this book is to help you save money and reduce stress while you are adjusting to your new life.

Use Bahncard to travel around Germany.

Deutsche Bahn is Germany’s largest public transportation business. Deutsche Bahn is in charge of monitoring the transportation schedule in the city where you study as well. You may see the schedule whenever and wherever you want by downloading the “DB App” on your mobile phone. There, you can get all information on public transportation, such as buses and trains. It’s a fantastic pocket app that we strongly suggest for anyone living in Germany.

Study German

We all know that German is difficult. However, acquiring a little bit of the local dialect will make your living in Germany simpler and allow you to integrate into the local population. It will almost certainly improve your chances of finding a job as well.

There are several German courses to select from, with programs to fit every lifestyle and budget. You may even study online from the convenience of your own home.

Always carry your identification with you.

Always maintain your Residence Permit card (eAT), ID, or passport with you, and a printed copy at home. Germans are supposed to carry their national identification card at all times, while foreign people may get by with an eAT.

Getting in touch

Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals, it’s time to connect and keep in touch with friends and family back home. A prepaid German SIM card for your mobile phone may be purchased practically everywhere. If you wish to sign a contract, keep in mind that in Germany, they are rather rigid, generally run for 24 months, and may be automatically renewed after the initial contract ends.

Medical Treatment in Germany

In order to get medical treatment while living in Germany, you must first register with the state healthcare system (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung). Once enrolled, you will be granted a health card (Krankenversichertenkarte), which you must bring with you to any appointments or hospital visits.

Certain individuals, such as freelancers and high-earners, may also choose private medical insurance. If they have an EHIC, EU nationals may also get basic medical treatment (European Health Insurance Card).

Set Up Your Utilities

There are several internet service providers in Germany; however, you may need to first install a Deutsche Telekom connection, so verify with your landlord. Instead, many young people in Germany depend completely on their cell phones.

If you move into shared housing, you will most likely only take on specific household expenditures or pay into a pool of household money (Haushaltsgeld) to cover housing costs.