What you should know when starting your studies in Germany.

The next semester in Germany begins soon, bringing thousands of new students into a new chapter of life. For first-year students, especially international ones, this means navigating a maze of official registrations, housing, and taxes. If you're moving to Germany, here’s are the first steps to help you settle in smoothly!

Step 1: Arriving in Germany – A New Beginning 

The adventure begins the moment you step out of the airport. Germany’s structured and well-organized cities welcome you with an efficient transport system, cobbled streets, and a mix of historic and modern architecture. But before you start exploring, there are a few important things to take care of!

📌 Tip: Download Google Maps and Deutsche Bahn (DB) Navigator to navigate easily.

Step 2: Registering at the Municipality (Bürgeramt)

In Germany, registering your new address is mandatory within two weeks of moving. You must visit the Bürgeramt (citizen’s office) with:

✔️ Passport & visa

✔️ Rental contract (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)

✔️ Registration form (Meldebescheinigung)

Some cities allow online registration via Electronic Residence Registration (eWA), making the process faster. Late registration may lead to a fine of up to €1,000, but usually, minor delays result in a small fee of €10-30.

📌 Tip: Book your Bürgeramt appointment as soon as possible, as slots fill up fast!

Step 3: Getting Your Deutschlandticket

At most public universities, the Deutschlandticket is included in the semester fee, giving students access to nationwide public transport for free. However, some universities offer only a local semester ticket instead.

✔️ The ticket is digital and available via apps like easy.go, HAVAG movemix, or DB Navigator.

✔️ If you don’t own a smartphone, you can request a chip card from the transport provider.

✔️ Some universities allow upgrading the semester ticket to a full

Deutschlandticket for €49.

Step 4: Paying the Radio Tax (Rundfunkbeitrag)

Every household in Germany must pay a public broadcasting tax (€18.36/month), even if they don’t watch TV or listen to the radio. You will receive a letter from the ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice asking for payment.

✔️ If you live alone – you must pay the full amount.

✔️ If you live in a shared apartment (WG) – one person pays, and the others split the cost.

✔️ Exemptions apply for BAföG recipients (with proof).

📌 Tip: Check with your roommates before paying—you might not need to pay if someone else in your apartment already does!