Introduction
Moving to a brand new country can be daunting for many, but there are certain things you can do to make sure your process is as safe and as streamlined as can be.
This article will serve as a guide to your first few weeks in Germany, and hopefully provide some insight into how to integrate effectively into your new home.
Luggage and Entry Process
First things first, make sure you have your passport at the ready. It must be valid and you must ensure that your visa is correct and allows you entry.
One of the most important things upon arriving in Germany with all your valid documentation is registering yourself. Upon arriving at the airport, you must proceed to immigration control, and once sorted out, the next step will be for you to register at the local town office. You must do this within two weeks of arrival.
Transportation
The major airports in Germany are Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, Berlin, and Düsseldorf. The most likely port of entry for South Africans will be Frankfurt, and almost all towns can be reached via train.
As with most things you will find in Germany, public transport is extremely efficient, but acquiring a bicycle or some other small form of transportation will be useful in the long run.
Accommodation
Accommodation will be another one of your chief concerns upon arriving in Germany. Wherever you choose to stay, whether at a hotel, a hostel, or with family, you will have to register your address after a certain amount of time at the local registration office, called an Einwohnermeldearnt.
Legal Requirements
Part of your residence registration comes from ensuring you have a valid residence permit.
You will also have to register for German health insurance as it’s a legal requirement in Germany, regardless of whether you’re staying for a certain period, or indefinitely.
Culture Shock and Settling In
Another very important thing to do when settling down in Germany is opening a German bank account. A Girokonto is a current account that you can use for daily banking, and a Sparkonto is a pure savings account.
To open a German bank account as a foreigner you will need your passport, proof of residence and income, a credit report (if possible), and a completed application form. You may be required to make an initial deposit as well.
There are also some fundamental differences between Germans and South Africans that you’re going to have to come to terms with pretty quickly while settling in, the most notable being compliancy, which is touched on below.
The national language is, naturally, German, but there are a significant number of people who speak English as well. Most business is also conducted in German, so knowing some basic phrases would be ideal. As a part of your application process, you will be required to complete a basic German language proficiency test as well.
Finally, make sure to get a grip on your surroundings and make notes of where your local supermarkets, healthcare facilities, and other essential amenities in your area are.
The German postal system is functional and reliable and official communication from the authorities will be sent by post. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you have your name on the bell of your house / apartment, to ensure successful delivery of important communication.
Compliance
Respecting the rules is something that people in Germany take very seriously, and something as simple as jaywalking is highly frowned upon. Ensuring that, if you acquire your own personal form of transport like a car or bicycle, your brake and headlights function properly is also incredibly important, as you can receive quite a hefty fine if they don’t.
General compliance is vital as you don’t want to wind up with a visa ban, and this is especially painful when dealing with work and dependents.
Conclusion and Overall Tips
Overall, make sure to keep all your documents safe and sound in your new home. Familiarise yourself with your surroundings, with all local emergency numbers and services, and keep updated with local news and regulations.
Germany is well known for its efficiency, cultural richness, and high standard of living. Embrace the experience and enjoy what the country has to offer.
Written by Simon Carletti, PR and Creative Supervisor
