Before You Start

Moving to Berlin involves navigating Germany’s well-organized but bureaucratic administrative system. Most newcomers must complete several registration steps quickly upon arrival. Be prepared for documentation requirements, high demand for appointments, and potential language barriers—many official forms and websites are in German. It's wise to book administrative appointments in advance and bring both originals and copies of key documents.

Administrative Registration

In Berlin, residents are legally required to register their new address (Anmeldung) at a Bürgeramt within 14 days of moving. You'll need to book an appointment online—slots fill up quickly. Bring your passport/ID, rental contract, and a signed confirmation from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung). Registration is necessary for many other processes, such as opening a bank account or getting a tax ID.

• Berlin Registration Overview
• Bürgeramt Berlin

Healthcare Registration

Germany has a dual public and private healthcare system. Enrollment in health insurance (Krankenversicherung) is usually mandatory. Most residents opt for the public/‘statutory’ system (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung), but private options exist for some. Your health insurance provider will issue a card you’ll use when seeking healthcare services. Registration for healthcare often coincides with starting your job and is a prerequisite for social security enrollment.

• Berlin Health Information
• AOK Health Insurance

Social Security

Social security in Germany includes health insurance, pension insurance, unemployment insurance, and long-term care insurance. Enrollment for employees is generally automatic via your employer, but freelancers and self-employed must register themselves. Social security contributions are deducted from your paycheck, and you receive a Sozialversicherungsnummer (social security number) by mail.

• German Pension Insurance (DRV)
• Techniker Krankenkasse

Tax Number

A tax ID (Steueridentifikationsnummer) is required for all residents and is automatically sent by post after registration at the Bürgeramt. If you don’t receive it, you can request it from the local tax office (Finanzamt). This ID is needed for employment, opening certain accounts, and tax filings.

• Berlin Finanzämter
• Bundeszentralamt für Steuern

Required Documents

• Passport or national ID
• Visa or residence permit (if not EU/EEA)
• Rental contract
• Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (Landlord's confirmation form)
• Health insurance certificate
• Employment contract (if applicable)

Helpful Local Services

Key Berlin authorities and portals include the Bürgerämter (citizens’ offices) for registration, the online Berlin Service Portal for administrative tasks, the local Gesundheitsämter for health matters, and the Finanzamt for tax-related issues. Many processes can be initiated online, but in-person appointments are often still required.