Anmeldung, health insurance, a bank account, a tax ID — four formalities that must be done early, and they depend on each other in a set order.
The right order for the four formalities
These four formalities are linked: do them in the wrong order and you have to start again. The order that works is to register your address first, then deal with the rest.
- 1. Anmeldung — address registration at the Bürgeramt; you need a confirmation from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)
- 2. Health insurance — choose a statutory health insurance fund; it issues the insurance number your employer needs for payroll
- 3. Bank account — you need your Anmeldung certificate and passport
- 4. Tax ID (Steuer-ID) — sent to you automatically by post once your Anmeldung is complete
Note:Without an Anmeldung you will hardly be able to open a bank account, and without a bank account your employer cannot pay your salary. Complete your Anmeldung within the first two weeks.
Documents to carry with you at all times
- Passport with visa
- A printed copy of your employment contract or training contract
- Anmeldung certificate
- Health insurance card
- Bank account details
Always open your post
In Germany, everything important arrives by letter: the immigration office, the tax office, insurers, banks. Many letters come with a deadline for replying.
Make sure your name is on the letterbox and open every envelope as soon as it arrives. If you do not understand a letter, take a photo of it and ask an adviser or your mentor at work.