Skip to content

Resource guide

Living in Germany

A practical guide for your first weeks-so you spend less time confused and more time building your new life.

International student walking in a German city with a backpack
Your first month is easier with a checklist and a calm plan.

At a glance

  • Budget realistically: rent is the biggest variable.
  • Health insurance is mandatory for enrolment and often for residence procedures.
  • City registration (Anmeldung) unlocks many essentials.
  • Student work rules depend on your residence status-check your permit.
  • Keep a 'paperwork folder': Germany still loves documents.

Your first 30 days: a simple timeline

  1. 1

    Before you arrive

    Print key documents, book temporary housing, and arrange initial insurance coverage.

    Action: Create one folder (digital + paper) for all documents.

  2. 2

    Day 1-3: Get connected

    SIM, transport, groceries, basic routines. Keep it simple.

    Action: Save emergency numbers and your local embassy contact.

  3. 3

    Week 1: Register your address (Anmeldung)

    If required in your situation, registration is often needed for bank accounts and other admin steps.

    Action: Book appointments early-slots can be limited.

  4. 4

    Week 1-2: Banking and payments

    A German bank account helps with rent, fees, and everyday life.

    Action: Set up basic monthly budgeting categories.

  5. 5

    Week 2-4: Health insurance & residence admin

    Make sure your health coverage meets requirements for your status.

    Action: Keep proof documents handy.

  6. 6

    Housing: move from temporary to stable

    Rooms can be competitive. Apply early, respond fast, and be organized.

    Action: Prepare a short 'renter profile' (intro, documents, references).

  7. 7

    Build your routine

    Language improves when it becomes daily. A course + real-life practice is the fastest combo.

    Action: Join a course and set a weekly speaking goal.

Deep dive

Housing options (what works for students)

Find the housing model that fits your budget, independence level, and support needs.

  • Student dorms
  • WG/shared flat
  • Private apartment
  • Host family

Action: Apply early, prepare documents, and be responsive.

Budgeting that actually works

Build a budget based on real categories so your plan works in month one.

  • Rent
  • Food
  • Transport
  • Insurance
  • Phone/internet
  • Learning materials

Action: Create a 'setup buffer' for deposits and first-month costs.

Health insurance (don't wing this)

Insurance details can affect enrolment and residence processes, so confirm early.

  • Required for enrolment
  • Choose coverage appropriate for long stays
  • Travel insurance may not be enough for long-stay visas

Action: Confirm requirements before arrival.

Working while studying (the safe approach)

Work rules are practical but specific, so follow your permit conditions exactly.

  • Rules vary
  • Check your residence title
  • Keep work hours within permitted limits
  • Prioritize study rhythm

Action: Confirm your exact allowance.

Everyday life: quick wins

Small practical habits make your transition smoother and reduce avoidable stress.

  • Public transport passes
  • Recycling basics
  • Cash/card expectations
  • Appointments
  • Punctuality

Action: Keep a checklist, don't improvise bureaucracy.

How CASA supports your settling-in

Language + structure + support gives you momentum in your new environment.

  • Placement + course plan
  • Exam pathway
  • Staff support
  • Community opportunities

Action: Start with placement test or course picker.

Students viewing an apartment together
Housing is easier with preparation.
International students cooking together
Community makes a new country feel like home.

Save this checklist: Living in Germany

  • Printed + digital document folder
  • Temporary housing booked
  • Insurance plan for arrival
  • Local transport plan
  • Address registration plan (if applicable)
  • Banking + monthly budget
  • Housing search strategy
  • Weekly German practice routine

FAQ

Official links

Studierendenwerke

Student life, insurance, practical guides

Visit source

Make it in Germany

Rules and updates around working while studying

Visit source

German embassy/consulate

Visa and insurance requirements

Visit source