An independent magazine for building a life in Germany.
Tag · 10 guides
Everything we've published tagged First Steps.
10 guides · Last updated 2026-08-09
01 / Lead guide
Supporting
02 / Guides
Haftpflichtversicherung for expats in Germany 2026: Privathaftpflicht cover, costs as of July 2026, limits, English signup tips, and a renters checklist...
How to find a job in Germany as an expat in 2026: Lebenslauf, LinkedIn, work permit timing, interviews, and first-month setup as of July 2026...
Girokonto fees for expats in Germany 2026 are not just monthly account charges. Compare maintenance, SEPA, direct debit, card, and ATM costs with a practical July 2026 calculator...
TaxesGerman tax classes for expats 2026 affect your monthly net pay, but not always your final tax bill. Here's how Steuerklassen work, when to switch, and how to estimate salary after tax...
BureaucracyNavigate Germany's mandatory address registration with our comprehensive 2026 guide. Learn required documents, step-by-step process, common mistakes to avoid, and current costs for completing your Anmeldung successfully...
First StepsThere's a specific order you need to do things when moving to Germany. Follow this day-by-day checklist to get the essentials sorted in your first month...
AccommodationFinding an apartment in German cities is genuinely hard. Here's a realistic guide covering where to search, the Bewerbungsmappe, and how to stand out...
Visa & ImmigrationGermany has a visa for almost every situation. This guide breaks down the Blue Card, work visa, freelance visa, and others in plain English...
SIM Cards & InternetGetting connected in Germany starts with choosing the right SIM card or mobile plan. From prepaid options for immediate connectivity to contract plans with better long-term value, this guide covers network coverage, costs, and expat-specific requirements...