Got a job offer in Germany? Your first 30 days, step by step

Congratulations, you got the job! 🎉 Before your first payslip, Germany wants a few things from you. Most of them depend on each other, so the order matters. Here's the order that works for most people.

1. Find a place to live (and get the landlord form)

You can't register without an address, and you can't register without the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung, a short form signed by your landlord confirming you moved in. A rental contract alone is not enough.

If you're arriving before you've found a long-term flat, a furnished place for the first one to three months takes a lot of pressure off. Make sure the landlord provides the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung.

2. Register your address (Anmeldung): within 2 weeks

You must register at the local citizens' office (Bürgeramt / Einwohnermeldeamt) within two weeks of moving in. Bring your passport, the landlord form and the registration form. In big cities, appointments can be booked out for weeks, so book as soon as you know your move-in date and check daily for cancellations.

You'll get a registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung). Keep it; you'll need it for almost everything.

3. Tax ID: arrives by post

About two weeks after you register, your tax identification number (Steuer-ID) arrives by post. Your employer needs it for payroll. If it hasn't arrived by your first payday, you may be taxed at the highest tax class for a month, which you get back later, but it hurts the cash flow. If you're in a hurry, your local tax office (Finanzamt) can usually give it to you in person.

4. Bank account for your salary

Your salary is paid into a bank account, and it's much easier with a German or SEPA account (an IBAN starting with a EU country code). Online banks can be opened within minutes from your phone, and some don't require the Anmeldung first. If you send money home regularly, a multi-currency account saves a lot in fees.

5. Health insurance: mandatory from day one

Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. As an employee:

• If you earn up to €77,400 a year (2026), you are insured in the public system (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung). You choose the insurer; the contribution is split between you and your employer and deducted from your salary.
• Above that, you can choose between public and private insurance.

Your employer will ask which insurer you chose, so decide before your start date. Many public insurers and brokers now offer full English support.

6. What your employer will ask for

Usually: your tax ID, bank details (IBAN), health insurer, social security number (your insurer usually helps you get it if you don't have one yet), and for non-EU citizens, your residence permit or visa.

Optional but popular

• Personal liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung): not mandatory, but most Germans have it and it's cheap.
• German classes: your future self will thank you. Some employers pay for them, so ask!

General information, not legal or tax advice. Figures are for 2026 and change yearly.