✶ Free · Curated · City-specific

Your guide to relocating to Germany

16 states · 128+ cities · official links, forms, and step-by-step guides for expats. No fluff, no paywalls.

16
States
128+
Cities
4
Guides
Free
Always

Pre-Arrival Checklist

The 5 things to sort out from abroad — before you book the flight to Germany.

Step 01
🗣️
Language Preparation
Start free German lessons before you leave. vhs-Lernportal (BMBF), DW Nicos Weg, Goethe-Institut — bypasses BAMF integration-course waitlists. A1 is mandatory for Spouse Reunification.
Start hereFrom abroad
Step 02
📜
Sworn Translations
Get certified (beglaubigte) translations of birth/marriage certificates, diplomas, and police records before you travel. German authorities only accept translations by court-sworn translators — find one via an official directory:
From abroad
Step 03
🔒
Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)
Most student and job-seeker visas require a Sperrkonto proving you can cover living costs (~€11,904/year). Open one before your visa appointment — pick a provider:
Visa requirementFrom abroad
Step 04
🛂
Apply for Your Visa
Job Seeker, EU Blue Card, Freelancer, Family Reunification, Student — apply at the German embassy in your home country before you book the flight.
MandatoryFrom abroad
Step 05
🏠
Find a Furnished Apartment
Line up temporary furnished housing before arrival so you have an address to register — you cannot do Anmeldung without a lease. Pick a platform:
First footholdFrom abroad

Federal Portals

Online services that work the same in every Bundesland. Bookmark these — they apply wherever you live in Germany.

★ Rate This Page

Was this information helpful?

Anonymous  •  No sign-up  •  Takes 10 seconds

⚠︎

Important: This is not legal, tax, or immigration advice. The information on this site is a general, informational starting point only. Laws, fees, deadlines, and procedures change frequently. Always verify current rules on the official government websites linked here, and consult a qualified lawyer, tax advisor, or licensed migration counsellor (Migrationsberatung) before making binding decisions. Relocation Roadmap is independent and not affiliated with any government agency, bank, insurer, or institution mentioned on this site.