Practical tools
Official appointments & forms
Official booking pages and forms for common processes in your city.
Available for Germany
72 processes
Essential official links for Berlin
Service-Portal BerlinOfficial pageOfficial portal for Berlin's administrative services, with documents, fees, responsible offices and online applications for each service. service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Book an appointment (Terminvereinbarung)BookingFree appointment booking for Berlin offices, including a citywide search across all locations. service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Citizens' offices (Bürgerämter) by districtOfficial pageAll Bürgerämter and their services, grouped by district office. service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) District offices (Bezirksämter)Official pageLinks to the websites of the 12 district offices. service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) State Office for Immigration (LEA)Official pageBerlin's immigration authority for residence permits, Blue Cards, settlement permits and naturalisation, with appointments and online applications. berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) State Office for Citizens' and Regulatory Affairs (LABO)Official pageDriving licences, vehicle registration and other citywide citizen services. berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Willkommenszentrum Berlin (Welcome Center)Official pageFree counselling for newcomers on residence, work, benefits and more, plus guides in several languages. willkommenszentrum.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Senate Commissioner for Participation, Integration and MigrationOfficial pageBerlin's integration and migration office, which runs the Willkommenszentrum and integration programmes. berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BVG (Berlin public transport)Official pageU-Bahn, tram, bus and ferry operator; timetables, tickets, subscriptions and apps. bvg.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) VBB (Berlin-Brandenburg transport association)Official pageThe common fare system for Berlin and Brandenburg, with the journey planner, maps and ticket information. vbb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) 116117 - medical on-call serviceOfficial pageUrgent medical help when practices are closed, around the clock and free on 116117, plus a search for on-call practices. 116117.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin police online station (Internetwache)Official pageReport crimes and give information to the Berlin police online, in German or English. In an emergency call 110. internetwache-polizei-berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BSR (Berlin city cleaning)Official pageWaste collection, recycling centres, bulky waste and street cleaning (in German). bsr.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) berlin.de in EnglishOfficial pageThe city's official portal in English, with sections on living in Berlin, administration and immigration. berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Applying for jobs in Germany: CV, cover letter, references and interviews
Read our guideBecoming a German citizen - naturalisation rules in 2026
Read our guideBerlin - naturalisation online application with Quick-CheckForm service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LEA - naturalisation and citizenship mattersOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin - register for the citizenship testBooking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BAMF - citizenship test informationOfficial page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Nationality Act section 10Official page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Becoming self-employed or freelance in Germany (with Berlin specifics)
Read our guideService Berlin: register a tradeOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin online trade registration (Einheitlicher Ansprechpartner)Form gewerbemeldung.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin: tax registration for self-employmentOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) ELSTER: company founded or became self-employed?Form elster.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin: residence permit for freelance workBooking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) KünstlersozialkasseOfficial page kuenstlersozialkasse.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Deutsche Rentenversicherung: self-employedOfficial page deutsche-rentenversicherung.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Booking a Bürgeramt appointment in Berlin
Read our guideBook an appointment (Berlin service portal)Booking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Change or cancel an appointmentBooking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Register your address (service page with citywide booking)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Child benefit in Germany (Kindergeld)
Read our guideFamilienkasse: apply for Kindergeld onlineForm arbeitsagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Familienkasse: Kindergeld entitlement, amount and durationOfficial page arbeitsagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Familienkasse: Kindergeld for people from or abroadOfficial page arbeitsagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Familienkasse: KinderzuschlagOfficial page arbeitsagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Consumer rights in Germany: withdrawal, cancellation, warranty and debt collection
Read our guideVerbraucherzentrale Berlin - book an advice appointmentBooking verbraucherzentrale-berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Verbraucherzentrale Berlin - advice hotlinesOfficial page verbraucherzentrale-berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Universal Arbitration Board of the Federal GovernmentOfficial page universalschlichtungsstelle.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Verbraucherzentrale - template letter for an online withdrawalForm verbraucherzentrale.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Cost of living in Berlin: rent, transport, fees and insurance in 2026
Read our guideBerlin rent index 2026 (press release, German)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin operating cost overviewOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BVG: tickets and pricesOfficial page bvg.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Broadcasting fee: information for residentsOfficial page rundfunkbeitrag.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Ministry of Health: statutory health insurance contributionsOfficial page bundesgesundheitsministerium.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Cycling in Berlin - rules, fines, safety and protecting your bike
Read our guideBerlin police: free bike marking (German)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin police: protecting your bike (German)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin online police station (report a theft)Official page internetwache-polizei-berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) § 2Official page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal fine catalogue (BKatV annex)Official page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Deregistering when you leave Germany (Abmeldung) and changing address within Germany
Read our guideService Berlin: deregister a home (Abmeldung)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Deregistration form (Abmeldung bei der Meldebehörde)Form berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin: register a new addressOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Broadcasting fee: deregister a homeForm rundfunkbeitrag.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Documents to bring to Germany: originals, apostilles and translations
Read our guideFederal Foreign Office: foreign public documents for use in GermanyOfficial page auswaertiges-amt.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Foreign Office: international document exchange (German)Official page auswaertiges-amt.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin: certification of copiesOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LEA Berlin: digital photos for residence documentsOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Emergency numbers in Germany, with Berlin contacts
Read our guideBerlin police - emergency call 110Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin police - list of emergency services and important numbersOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin police online station (Internetwache)Official page internetwache-polizei-berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) 116117 - medical on-call serviceOfficial page 116117.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Giftnotruf der CharitéOfficial page giftnotruf.charite.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
EU Blue Card in Germany: 2026 salary thresholds, requirements and settlement
Read our guideEU Blue Card application (Berlin LEA)Form service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Settlement permit for EU Blue Card holders (Berlin)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) ZAB Statement of ComparabilityOfficial page zab.kmk.org (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Consular Services Portal (Auslandsportal)Official page digital.diplo.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Family reunification: bringing your spouse, children or parents to Germany
Read our guideBAMF: subsequent immigration to join foreign family membersOfficial page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Residence permit for the foreign spouse of a foreign national (Berlin)Form service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Consular Services Portal (Auslandsportal)Official page digital.diplo.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Foreign Office: suspension of family reunification for subsidiary protection (German)Official page auswaertiges-amt.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Filing a German tax return as an employee
Read our guideFinding a doctor in Berlin
Read our guideFinding a flat in Berlin
Read our guideinberlinwohnen.de: flats from Berlin's state-owned housing companiesOfficial page inberlinwohnen.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Free tenant advice in Berlin's districtsOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Mietpreisprüfstelle (free rent check)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin: register your addressBooking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Finding a job in Germany: where to look, language and salary research
Read our guideFinding a Kita or childminder in Berlin (Kita-Gutschein)
Read our guideGerman income tax basics for employees
Read our guideGerman rental terms explained: Kaltmiete, Kaution, Staffelmiete and more
Read our guideGetting a German mobile number (prepaid, contract or eSIM)
Read our guideTelecommunications Act § 172 (identity data and verification)Official page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Bundesnetzagentur: internet and phone consumer informationOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Bundesnetzagentur: roamingOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Your Europe: mobile roaming costsOfficial page europa.eu (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Getting a housing eligibility certificate (WBS) for social housing in Berlin
Read our guideService Berlin: Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Online WBS applicationForm liste-antraege.bda.service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berliner Mietratgeber: Wohnberechtigungsschein (income limits)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) District housing offices (Wohnungsämter)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Getting around Berlin by public transport (BVG, S-Bahn and VBB tickets)
Read our guideBVG: all tickets and pricesOfficial page bvg.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BVG: fare zonesOfficial page bvg.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) VBB price list from January 2027 (shows 2026 and 2027 prices)Official page vbb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) VBB tariff conditions (German, PDF)Official page vbb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BVG: ticket inspections and the EBE portalOfficial page bvg.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) VBB-BAV barrier-free alternative transportOfficial pagePhone 030 25 41 44 44 vbb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Getting home internet in Germany (DSL, cable and fibre)
Read our guideBundesnetzagentur: contract rights, router freedom, speedOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Bundesnetzagentur: internet speed and payment reductionOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Bundesnetzagentur: switching provider and movingOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Bundesnetzagentur: outages and compensationOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Bundesnetzagentur: conciliation for telecoms disputesOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Getting legal help in Germany, with Berlin contacts
Read our guideService Berlin - apply for legal advice aid (Beratungshilfe)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin courts - Beratungshilfe forms and court finderForm berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin courts - Prozess- und Verfahrenskostenhilfe formsForm berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin - apply for ProzesskostenhilfeOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency - contact and adviceOfficial page antidiskriminierungsstelle.gov.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LADG ombuds office (Berlin)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Willkommenszentrum Berlin - adviceOfficial page willkommenszentrum.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Getting or extending a residence permit at Berlin's immigration office (LEA)
Read our guideLEA - how appointments and online applications workBooking berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LEA - list of servicesOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin - immigration services (all online applications)Form service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LEA - locationsOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LEA - contact forms by departmentOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Fiktionsbescheinigung (Service Berlin)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Business Immigration ServiceOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Getting your foreign qualifications recognised in Germany (Anerkennung)
Read our guideAnerkennung in Deutschland - official recognition portalOfficial page anerkennung-in-deutschland.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) ZAB Statement of ComparabilityOfficial page zab.kmk.org (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) IHK FOSA (vocational qualifications)Official page ihk-fosa.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Health insurance in Germany
Read our guideFederal Ministry of Health - contributions and ratesOfficial page bundesgesundheitsministerium.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Ministry of Health - who is insured in statutory insuranceOfficial page bundesgesundheitsministerium.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Ministry of Health - choosing and switching a statutory insurerOfficial page bundesgesundheitsministerium.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Ministry of Health - private health insuranceOfficial page bundesgesundheitsministerium.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Your Europe - European Health Insurance CardOfficial page europa.eu (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Learning German - levels, courses, exams and costs in 2026
Read our guideBAMF - integration coursesOfficial page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Volkshochschulen - German and integration coursesOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Volkshochschulen - exam centre (dates and fees)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BAMF - German for professional purposes (Berufssprachkurse)Official page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Recognition in Germany - German language skills and the Recognition FinderOfficial page anerkennung-in-deutschland.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Living in Germany as an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen
Read our guideBerlin LEA: information for EU, EEA and Swiss nationals (German)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Residence card for family members of EU/EEA citizens (Berlin)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Residence permit for Swiss nationals and their family members (Berlin)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Certificate of permanent residence for EU citizens (Berlin)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Making friends and building a social life in Berlin
Read our guideEhrenamtskarte Berlin-Brandenburg (volunteer card)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Senate - neighbourhood centres and self-help contact pointsOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Volkshochschulen - course searchOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Mental health support in Berlin
Read our guideBerliner Krisendienst (English)Official page berliner-krisendienst.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) 116117 - psychotherapy information and appointmentsOfficial page 116117.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) 116117 appointment service (online booking)Booking 116117-termine.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Social-psychiatric service of the Berlin districtsOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Minijobs, midijobs and working while studying in Germany (2026 rules)
Read our guideMinijob-Zentrale: minijob with earnings limitOfficial page minijob-zentrale.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Minijob-Zentrale: short-term employmentOfficial page minijob-zentrale.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Minijob-Zentrale: minijobs for studentsOfficial page minijob-zentrale.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Deutsche Rentenversicherung: working-student ruleOfficial page deutsche-rentenversicherung.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) § 16b Residence Act (study, work limits)Official page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Moving out of a rented flat in Germany and getting your deposit back
Read our guideBerliner Mietratgeber: notice (Kündigung)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berliner Mietratgeber: contracts and depositOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin: tenant protection and free district tenant adviceOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BGB § 573c: notice periodsOfficial page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BGB § 551: rental depositOfficial page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Moving to Germany: an overview of routes, timeline and first steps
Read our guideFederal Foreign Office: visas for GermanyOfficial page auswaertiges-amt.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Auslandsportal: online visa applicationsForm digital.diplo.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Landesamt für Einwanderung Berlin (LEA)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin: accelerated skilled worker procedureOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Opening a bank account in Germany
Read our guideBaFin - basic payment account (English)Official page bafin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BaFin - Basiskonto (German, with application and complaint forms)Form bafin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BaFin - debit cards and credit cards (English)Official page bafin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BaFin - verification of payee (English)Official page bafin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte): looking for work in Germany with the points system
Read our guideParental allowance and parental leave (Elterngeld and Elternzeit)
Read our guideService-Portal Berlin: ElterngeldOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Online application service (successor to ElterngeldDigital)Form mein-elterngeldantrag.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin youth offices (Jugendämter)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Parental Allowance and Parental Leave Act (BEEG)Official page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Permanent residence in Germany - settlement permit and EU long-term residence
Read our guideBerlin - settlement permit (general)Form service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin - settlement permit for EU Blue Card holdersForm service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin - EU long-term residence permitForm service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LEA - online applications for permanent titlesOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Residence Act section 9 (settlement permit)Official page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Residence Act section 18c (skilled workers and Blue Card)Official page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Pets in Berlin: bringing your pet, dog registration, tax, insurance and leash rules
Read our guideBerlin dog register (Hunderegister) - register onlineBooking hunderegister.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Portal Berlin - registering a dog in the dog registerOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Senate - questions and answers on the Dog ActOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Senate Department for Finance - dog tax FAQOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Portal Berlin - exemption from the leash requirementOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Ministry of Agriculture - travelling with dogs, cats and ferretsOfficial page bmleh.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) European Commission - pet movementOfficial page ec.europa.eu (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) German Customs - pets from non-EU countriesOfficial page zoll.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Pharmacies, prescriptions and co-payments
Read our guidePregnancy and birth in Germany
Read our guideService Berlin - reporting the birth of a childOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin - acknowledging paternityOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin - applying for parental allowanceOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Familienportal - maternity protection and maternity payOfficial page familienportal.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Familienportal - parental allowanceOfficial page familienportal.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Familienportal - child benefitOfficial page familienportal.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Public holidays in Bavaria 2026 and 2027, silent days and school holidays
Read our guideBavarian Public Holidays Act, Article 1 (German)Official page gesetze-bayern.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Bavarian Ministry of Education: school holiday dates (German)Official page km.bayern.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) City of Munich: shop closing times and public holidays (German)Official page stadt.muenchen.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Public holidays in Berlin 2026 and 2027, shop closures and school holidays
Read our guideSenate Department for Education: school holiday datesOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin school holiday order 2024/25 to 2029/30 (PDF)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Senate Department for Economics: shop opening hours in BerlinOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Sunday and Holiday Act (Feiertagsgesetz, German)Official page gesetze.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Public libraries in Berlin - library card, digital offers and places to work
Read our guideVÖBB - online library card registrationForm voebb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) VÖBB - usage rules and feesOfficial page voebb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) VÖBB - digital offersOfficial page voebb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) ZLB - library card (English)Official page zlb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) ZLB - services FAQ (English)Official page zlb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) ZLB - foreign language collections (English)Official page zlb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Quiet hours and neighbours: Ruhezeiten, house rules and everyday courtesy
Read our guideBerlin Senate - typical noise disturbances and the legal position (16 examples)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Senate - who to contact about noiseOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Portal Berlin - household and neighbourhood noiseOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Ordnungsamt-Online - report problems in public spaceOfficial page ordnungsamt.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Registering as a job seeker and claiming unemployment benefit in Germany
Read our guideAgentur für Arbeit: register as a job seekerForm arbeitsagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Agentur für Arbeit: register as unemployed onlineForm arbeitsagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Agentur für Arbeit: unemployment benefit – entitlement, amount, durationOfficial page arbeitsagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Agentur für Arbeit: Grundsicherungsgeld replaces BürgergeldOfficial page arbeitsagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Welcome Centre (Willkommenszentrum)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Registering your address in Berlin (Anmeldung)
Read our guideService Berlin: register your main or only homeOfficial pageOfficial service page with requirements, forms, online option and office list (German) service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Book an appointment at a BürgeramtBooking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Registration form (Anmeldung bei der Meldebehörde)Form berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Landlord confirmation template (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)Form berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Supplementary sheet for more than one home (Beiblatt)Form berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Parental consent form (Einverständniserklärung der Sorgeberechtigten)Form berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Request a registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)Official page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Rental application documents in Germany: checklist and your data rights
Read our guideRental scams in Germany: how to spot them and what to do
Read our guideResidence permits in Germany: an overview of the main routes
Read our guideConsular Services Portal (Auslandsportal) for national visasOfficial page digital.diplo.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin State Office for Immigration (LEA)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LEA services: online application or contact formBooking berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Schools in Berlin for newcomer families
Read our guideSCHUFA and credit checks in Germany
Read our guideSeeking protection in Germany - an orientation to asylum and temporary protection
Read our guideLFU Berlin - arrival and registrationOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LFU Berlin - registration procedureOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BAMF - the asylum procedureOfficial page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Germany4Ukraine - official portal for people from UkraineOfficial page germany4ukraine.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin - information for people from UkraineOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LEA - extension of section 24 permitsOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Setting up electricity and gas when you move into a flat in Germany
Read our guideBundesnetzagentur: switching electricity or gas supplierOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Bundesnetzagentur: cancellation, notice periods and movingOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Bundesnetzagentur: prices and instalmentsOfficial page bundesnetzagentur.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Shipping your belongings to Germany: customs relief for household goods
Read our guideGerman customs: moving from a non-EU countryOfficial page zoll.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) German customs: conditions for removal goodsOfficial page zoll.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) German customs: rules for petsOfficial page zoll.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) German customs: cash declarationOfficial page zoll.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin: registering a used vehicle imported from outside the EUOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Shopping in Germany: opening hours, Sundays, deposits and paying
Read our guideService Portal Berlin - shop opening hours and Sunday exceptionsOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Senate Department for Economics - shop opening hours in BerlinOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Verbraucherzentrale - template letter when a shop refuses to take back deposit containersForm verbraucherzentrale.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Skilled worker permits: §18a, §18b and the experience-based route
Read our guideResidence permit for skilled workers with an academic education, §18b (Berlin)Form service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Residence permit for skilled workers with vocational training, §18a (Berlin)Form service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) ZAB Statement of ComparabilityOfficial page zab.kmk.org (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Consular Services Portal (Auslandsportal)Official page digital.diplo.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Social security and pension in Germany
Read our guideDeutsche Rentenversicherung - international information (English)Official page deutsche-rentenversicherung.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Deutsche Rentenversicherung - social security agreementsOfficial page deutsche-rentenversicherung.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Deutsche Rentenversicherung - social security number (Versicherungsnummernachweis)Official page deutsche-rentenversicherung.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Staying safe in Berlin and what to do if something happens
Read our guideBerlin police online station (Internetwache)Official page internetwache-polizei-berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin police - Stay safe (English)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin police - Beware of pickpockets (English)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin police - preventing bicycle theftOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin police - fake police officers and bank staffOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin police - contacts for hate crimeOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Public prosecutor - Central Office for Hate CrimeOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Central Lost Property OfficeOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Studying in Germany as an international student
Read our guideBerlin - residence permit for studies (online application)Form service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Foreign Office - Consular Services PortalOfficial page auswaertiges-amt.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Foreign Office - visas for GermanyOfficial page auswaertiges-amt.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Temporary accommodation in Berlin: furnished rentals, sublets and registration
Read our guideTenant rights in Berlin: rent cap, rent increases, repairs and notice
Read our guideThe broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag)
Read our guideRundfunkbeitrag - official website (English information)Official page rundfunkbeitrag.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Register a dwellingForm rundfunkbeitrag.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Apply for exemption or reductionForm rundfunkbeitrag.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Deregister a dwellingForm rundfunkbeitrag.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
The Deutschlandticket - Germany-wide local transport for €63 a month (2026)
Read our guideBVG: Deutschland-TicketOfficial page bvg.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) VBB: Deutschlandticket (German)Official page vbb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) VBB: buying and using the Deutschlandticket (German)Official page vbb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Government: Deutschlandticket (German)Official page bundesregierung.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) VBB tariff conditions, part C 1.6 and 6 (German, PDF)Official page vbb.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
The integration course (Integrationskurs) - entitlement, costs and how to apply in 2026
Read our guideBAMF - integration courses overviewOfficial page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BAMF - participation and costs (permits since 2005)Official page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BAMF - EU citizens and admissionOfficial page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal portal - apply for admission to an integration courseForm verwaltung.bund.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal portal - apply for exemption from the contributionForm verwaltung.bund.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal portal - apply for the 50% refundForm verwaltung.bund.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BAMF - final examination (DTZ and Leben in Deutschland)Official page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BAMF - German for professional purposes (Berufssprachkurse)Official page bamf.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin Volkshochschulen - counselling hours for German and integration coursesBooking berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
The landlord confirmation for registration (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)
Read our guideBerlin template for the landlord confirmationForm berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal Registration Act § 19 (landlord's duty to cooperate)Official page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin: register your addressOfficial page service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Using and exchanging a foreign driving licence in Germany (with the Berlin procedure)
Read our guideBerlin: exchange a non-EU/EEA licence (Annex 11 or third country)Booking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Berlin: exchange an EU/EEA licenceBooking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LABO: recognition of non-EU/EEA licences (German)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LABO: recognition of EU/EEA licences (German)Official page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Annex 11 FeV: list of countriesOfficial page gesetze-im-internet.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Waste and recycling in Berlin
Read our guideBSR information in EnglishOfficial page bsr.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BSR recycling yards - locations, hours and rulesOfficial page bsr.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Book a BSR bulky waste collectionBooking bsr.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Ordnungsamt-Online - report illegal dumpingOfficial page ordnungsamt.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Your first 30 days in Berlin: a step-by-step plan
Read our guideService Berlin: register your address (book an appointment)Booking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Service Berlin: online appointment bookingBooking service.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) LEA Berlin: online applications and noticesOfficial page berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) BVG: tickets and pricesOfficial page bvg.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Welcome Center BerlinOfficial page willkommenszentrum.berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
Your German tax ID (Steuerliche Identifikationsnummer)
Read our guideYour rights as an employee in Germany: contract, pay, hours, leave and dismissal
Read our guideFederal government: minimum wage 2026Official page bundesregierung.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Federal government: minimum wage FAQOfficial page bundesregierung.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Customs: minimum wage enforcementOfficial page zoll.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab) Labour Court Berlin: claim formsForm berlin.de (Opens {{site}} in a new tab)
All links go to official or responsible bodies. Appointment availability changes daily — check again if nothing is free.
More tools
- Personal moving checklistA checklist built from your situation: documents, deadlines and first steps.
- First-week plannerWhat to do in your first days and week, in a sensible order, with official links.
- Anmeldung preparation checkerCheck what you already have for address registration and what is still missing.