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Arrival

Finding a flat, registering your residence and opening a bank account – those are the first steps you should take in Germany.

Finding accommodation

Many students in Germany live in halls of residence. The rooms are affordable and you can get to know other students quickly. The “Find student hall” option on the Study in Germany website will assist you in the process of looking for a hall of residence in the area of your preferred university. Additionally, DAAD provides comprehensive information on applying for a hall of residence. You will find the addresses of student support services on the website of the Deutsches Studentenwerk. The International Office at your university will also help you with your search. 

You will find more information on finding accommodation in Germany in the "Living in Germany" section.

Registering your place of residence

Every time you move houses in Germany, you need to register with the Residents' Registration Office. You have 14 days to do so, once you have found accommodation. You can also register your new address at the Citizens' Registration Office (Bürgeramt). The address of the Residents’ Registration Office or the Citizens' Registration Office can be obtained from the International Office of your university. The International Offices' addresses can be found on the DAAD website.

Opening a bank account

In order to make payments (such as paying rent) quickly and easily, you need a bank account. You should therefore open a current account with a bank in Germany as soon as possible. Most institutions offer an account of this sort free of charge for students. 

You will find more information, for example what documents you require in order to apply for an account, in the "Living in Germany" section.

Information on the web

  1. Study in Germany How to find accommodation in Germany

Do you have any questions?

Let us advise you on your opportunities to work and live in Germany. Our experts will support you with questions regarding job search, visa, recognition and learning German. 

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