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Pre-Departure Guide for Germany

Everything you need to know before traveling to Germany for your studies. Get prepared and start your journey with confidence.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Documents

Valid Passport
Student Visa (National Visa Type D)
University Admission Letter
Blocked Account Confirmation (Sperrkonto)
Health Insurance Certificate
Academic transcripts and certificates
Language Proficiency Certificate (TestDaF/DSH)
Proof of Financial Resources

Financial

Open German Bank Account (Deutsche Bank, Sparkasse, Commerzbank)
Blocked Account Setup (€11,208 for 2024)
International Debit/Credit Card
Travel Insurance
Currency Exchange (EUR)
Inform Home Bank about International Travel
Understand German Banking System

Accommodation

Student Housing Application (Studentenwohnheim)
Private Housing Search (WG-Gesucht)
Rental Contract Review
Anmeldung (Registration) at Local Office
Utility Setup (Strom, Wasser, Internet)
Emergency Contact Information
Hausratversicherung (Household Insurance)

Travel

Book Flights to Germany
Airport Transfer (Train/Bus)
Travel Insurance
Pack Essential Items
Check Baggage Allowances
Download German Travel Apps
Plan Route to Accommodation

Essential German Apps

DB Navigator

Transport

German Railway App for Train Travel

BVG/MVG/Deutsche Bahn

Transport

Local Public Transport Apps

N26/Revolut

Finance

Popular Digital Banking Apps

WG-Gesucht

Housing

Find Shared Apartments

Lieferando

Food

Food Delivery Service

Kleinanzeigen

Shopping

German Version of Craigslist

Cultural Integration Tips

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Weather Preparation

Germany has four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold (below 0°C), summers warm (up to 30°C). Pack accordingly.

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Cultural Norms

Germans value punctuality, direct communication, and recycling. Sundays are quiet days (Ruhetag).

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Academic Culture

German universities emphasize independent study. Lectures are formal, and participation is expected.

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Public Transport

Excellent public transport system. Get a semester ticket (Semesterticket) for unlimited travel.

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Healthcare

Mandatory health insurance (TK, AOK, or private). Find local doctors (Hausarzt) and pharmacies (Apotheke).

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Shopping

Most shops close by 8 PM and are closed on Sundays. Bring cash as some places don't accept cards.

Emergency Information

Emergency Numbers

  • 112: Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
  • 110: Police
  • 116 117: Non-Emergency Medical Service
  • 0800 111 0 111: Crisis Helpline

Important Contacts

  • Embassy/Consulate: Your country's embassy
  • International Office (Akademisches Auslandsamt)
  • Student Health Center (Studentenwerk)
  • DAAD: German Academic Exchange Service

Packing Tips

Essential Items

  • • All important documents (passport, visa, admission letter)
  • • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • • European power adapters (Type F)
  • • Prescription medications
  • • Some home country snacks

Buy in Germany

  • • Bedding and pillows
  • • Kitchen utensils
  • • Heavy winter coats
  • • Textbooks (check library first)
  • • Electronics (230V system)

Baggage Tips

  • • Check airline weight limits
  • • Pack essentials in carry-on
  • • Label all luggage clearly
  • • Keep copies of documents
  • • Don't pack restricted items

Ready for Your German Adventure?

You're well-prepared for your journey. Best of luck with your studies!