• Registration (Anmeldung) is mandatory within 14 days (§17 BMG).
• Your Steuer-ID arrives automatically by post within 2–4 weeks.
• Health insurance (Krankenkasse) is compulsory for all residents.
• Family reunion visa holders may join their spouse’s statutory health insurance for free.
• Without these steps, you can’t work, open a bank account, or sign a proper rental contract.
1. Register your address (Anmeldung)
The Anmeldung is the first and most important step. By law (§17 Bundesmeldegesetz), you must register your new address within 14 days of moving in. Without this, you cannot receive a tax ID, open a bank account, or get proper insurance.
- Where: Bürgeramt / Meldebehörde in your city.
- Documents: Passport/ID, completed Anmeldung form, Wohnungsgeberbestätigung from your landlord.
- Result: You receive a Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate).
2. Wait for your Steuer-ID (Tax ID)
After registering, your Steuer-ID is created automatically and sent to you by post. This number stays with you for life and is required for employment and taxes.
- Timeframe: Usually 2–4 weeks after Anmeldung.
- Issued by: Federal Central Tax Office (BZSt).
- Tip: If it hasn’t arrived, request it again via BZSt online form.
3. Choose or confirm your Krankenkasse (Health insurance)
Health insurance is mandatory for everyone in Germany. Most employees are automatically enrolled in the statutory health insurance (GKV). You can choose a Krankenkasse like TK, AOK, Barmer, etc.
- Deadline: Register with a Krankenkasse before you start work.
- Family reunion visa: If you join your spouse in Germany, you may be covered under their statutory insurance (Familienversicherung) at no extra cost.
- Proof: Always keep the insurance confirmation; your employer/university will ask for it.
Make-it-in-Germany – Health Insurance
4. Open a bank account
Once you have your Anmeldung and soon your Steuer-ID, you can open a bank account. Many banks (N26, DKB, Sparkasse) will require your Meldebescheinigung. 👉 Without a bank account, you cannot receive a salary or pay rent easily.
5. Register for waste, broadcasting & local services
After settling, don’t forget these “hidden” obligations:
- Rundfunkbeitrag (Broadcasting fee): €18.36/month per household. You’ll get a letter from Beitragsservice.
- Waste registration: Usually handled by your landlord, but double-check with the city.
- Other services: Some cities require registering dogs or parking permits.
Official sources
- Bundesmeldegesetz §17 – Anmeldung
- BZSt – Tax ID
- Make-it-in-Germany – Health insurance
- ARD ZDF Beitragsservice – Rundfunkbeitrag
What happens if I miss the 14-day Anmeldung deadline?
You may face a fine, but most offices are flexible if you show proof you tried to book an appointment.
Can I work without a Steuer-ID?
Yes, temporarily. Your employer will use emergency tax class until your Steuer-ID arrives, then adjust payroll.