DoorstepMoving from India to Germany
Free step-by-step guides – checked against official sources.
Open the free Doorstep appHow do I come to Germany?
Student visa: step by stepFrom admission to your visa appointment in India.Skilled worker visa and EU Blue CardWorking in Germany with a job offer.Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte)Come to Germany to look for a job for up to one year.
Before you fly
Blocked account explainedWhy you need it, how much, and how it works.Incoming insurance explainedHealth cover for your visa and your first weeks.Documents checklistWhat to carry in your hand luggage.Is my degree recognised?Recognition of Indian degrees and professional qualifications.Sending money from India to GermanyBlocked account deposit, fees and exchange rates.What to pack (and what not)Documents, food, medicines and the German winter.
First weeks in Germany
Anmeldung: register your addressRequired within two weeks after moving in.Public health insurance (GKV)Mandatory for most students and employees.Starter pack: SIM, bank, electricity, internetThe everyday basics for your first month.Your first week in GermanySIM card, registration, bank account, tickets – in the right order.Finding a flat without getting scammedWhere to search, what landlords want and how scams work.
Living in Germany
Doctors, emergencies and healthHow the health system works and whom to call.Bringing your familySpouse and children, Kita, school, Kindergeld and Elterngeld.Taxes made simpleTax ID, tax classes and how to get money back.How to pay less tax in GermanyLegal ways to keep more of your salary – many expats miss them.Permanent residence and citizenshipWhen you can stay for good – and what it means for your Indian passport.Indian Embassy and ConsulatesPassport renewal, OCI, birth registration and emergencies.Leaving GermanyDeregistration, contracts, pension – a clean exit.
Doorstep is a free app for Indians moving to and living in Germany, by Arenja & Raj Finanz GmbH. Imprint · Privacy