Germany
Residence procedure: Anmeldung at the Bürgeramt / Einwohnermeldeamt
Official government websiteYour 7-step relocation checklist
- Step 1
EU Free Movement confirmed
As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in Germany with no visa. Bring a valid passport or national ID card.
- Step 2
Find accommodation
A local address is required for most other steps (registration, bank, tax number). Check housing costs before you move.
Cost of living in Germany - Step 3
Register your residence — Anmeldung at the Bürgeramt / Einwohnermeldeamt
Deadline: Within 14 days of moving in. This is the local residence registration procedure required under EU Directive 2004/38/EC after your first 3 months.
Official government portal - Step 4
Get your Steuer-Identifikationsnummer (Steuer-ID)
You need a Steuer-Identifikationsnummer (Steuer-ID) to work, get paid, or open a bank account in Germany.
Apply for Steuer-Identifikationsnummer (Steuer-ID) - Step 5
Register with Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) – e.g. TK, AOK, Barmer
Once resident and working, register with Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) – e.g. TK, AOK, Barmer. In the meantime your EHIC covers necessary care.
Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) – e.g. TK, AOK, Barmer portal - Step 6
Open a local bank account
Most Germany employers pay salary into a local EUR account. Bring your ID, proof of address and Steuer-Identifikationsnummer (Steuer-ID).
- Step 7
Calculate your expected net salary
See what you'll actually take home in Germany after tax and social security.
Open net salary calculator
FAQ — Moving to Germany
Information verified for 2026 from official Germany government sources. This guide applies to EU citizens under EU Directive 2004/38/EC.