Preparing for Germany

Preparing for Germany Guide

Getting a visa is just the first step. Thorough preparation before coming to Germany will make your German life much smoother. This guide covers the most important preparation items.

🏥 German Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory in Germany, and all residents must purchase medical insurance.

German Insurance Detailed Guide

  • Public Insurance (GKV) vs Private Insurance (PKV) comparison
  • Recommended insurance companies and services
  • Insurance application process and important considerations
  • Cost comparison and selection recommendations

Important Reminder: Health insurance is a required document for visa applications and a basic requirement for legal residence in Germany.

🏦 Bank Account

Living in Germany requires a local bank account to receive salary, pay rent, and handle daily expenses.

Bank Account Opening Guide

  • Regular Bank Account (Girokonto) - For daily life use
  • Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) - Specifically for visa applications
  • Major bank comparisons and recommendations
  • Account opening process and required documents

Special Recommendations:

  • Fintiba - Blocked account designed specifically for students
  • Expatrio - One-stop German life service platform

🏠 Finding Accommodation

Housing is the foundation of life in Germany. Understanding the rental market and techniques in advance is very important.

Accommodation Guide Details

  • Introduction to commonly used German rental websites
  • Rental process and important considerations
  • How to identify and avoid rental scams
  • Housing cost references for different cities

Useful Resources:

  • Germany Living Costs - Learn about living expenses in different cities
  • Rental website recommendations and usage tips

📋 Preparation Checklist Overview

Must-Do Items Before Departure ✅

  • Health Insurance - Purchase insurance meeting requirements
  • Bank Account - Open German bank account
  • Housing Arrangement - At least arrange temporary accommodation
  • Luggage Preparation - Pack according to German climate and needs
  • Important Documents - Prepare and backup all important documents

Priority Items After Arriving in Germany 🎯

  • Resident Registration (Anmeldung) - Complete within 14 days of arrival
  • Tax Number Application - Must obtain tax number before working
  • Mobile Phone Plan - Choose suitable communication services
  • Transport Card Purchase - Learn about local public transportation system
  • Daily Necessities Shopping - Purchase basic living essentials

💡 Practical Advice

Language Preparation

  • 📚 Continue improving German proficiency
  • 📱 Download German learning apps
  • 🗣️ Practice daily conversation and professional terminology

Cultural Adaptation

  • 🇩🇪 Learn about German culture and social customs
  • ⏰ Adapt to German time concepts and work styles
  • 🤝 Learn how to interact with German colleagues and neighbors

Financial Planning

  • 💰 Prepare sufficient startup funds
  • 📊 Understand German tax system
  • 💳 Learn to use German payment methods

🔗 Related Resources

Official Information

Useful Tools

Community Support

  • Chinese-German exchange groups and forums
  • Local Chinese community organizations
  • International student services at German universities

📞 Professional Support Services

🎯 One-Stop Germany Preparation Service

We provide comprehensive Germany preparation support:

Basic Consultation Service - $99

  • Germany preparation checklist guidance
  • Basic question answers
  • Resource recommendations

Standard Service Package - $299

  • Personalized preparation plan
  • Insurance and bank account application guidance
  • Housing search assistance
  • Basic guidance after arriving in Germany

Premium Service Package - $599

  • Full one-on-one guidance
  • Insurance and bank account agency services
  • Housing booking assistance
  • Comprehensive support after arriving in Germany
  • Emergency contact and problem solving

📱 Contact Information

🚀 Get Professional Guidance Now

Let our professional team help you prepare thoroughly for coming to Germany

Consult Basic Service Consult Standard Service Consult Premium Service

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the best time to start preparing?

A: It’s recommended to start preparing immediately after getting your visa, especially insurance and bank account applications which take some time.

Q: How much startup funds should I prepare?

A: Besides the financial proof required for visa, it’s recommended to prepare an additional €2,000-3,000 as startup funds.

Q: Can I skip buying insurance first?

A: No. German law requires all residents to have health insurance, which is also a necessary condition for visa and residence permits.

Q: Is housing difficult to find?

A: The housing market in major German cities is competitive. It’s recommended to start searching early or arrange temporary accommodation first.

Good preparation is half the battle. If you need any help, please feel free to contact us!