Moving to Germany from India? Here Is a Checklist for You!

Moving to a new country is something so adventurous in itself. And travelling to Germany is an excellent choice among all other countries, as there are many unique places to visit in Germany. So, let’s have a brief introduction about why Germany is a good place to relocate to.

More and more ex-pats worldwide are deciding to live in Germany. This largest economy in Europe provides a variety of work opportunities. From the financial centre of Europe, Frankfurt, to ultra-hip Berlin, there is something to suit every taste.

If you’re considering travelling to Germany, there are a few things you should be aware of. These cover a wide range of subjects, including driving regulations and visa requirements. This article provides a travelling to Germany checklist to help you plan your relocation.

Top 10 things that must be on your Checklist before Moving to Germany

1. Conduct your Research

Prepare a list of the best places to visit in Germany with family. It is essential to research daily living in Germany before relocating there. In general, foreigners find Germany to be a kind and accepting country. You should be aware that due to the country’s history, there are considerable geographic differences in the cost of living and career opportunities while travelling to Germany.

2. Cost of Living

The high standard of living, adequate public transportation, first-rate healthcare, and superior educational system are hallmarks of Germany. According to the OECD Better Life Index, Germany has a higher quality of life and overall well-being than the average country.

You would be happy to know that while travelling to Germany, your cost of living in Berlin will be much lower as compared to other major European cities like Paris, London, Rome, Brussels, and Zurich. However, significant German cities have higher cost of living. This is because shopping expenses in major German cities are frequently significantly lower than in other major European cities.

Naturally, your lifestyle and the city or region you live in will affect how much it costs to live in Germany. This overview of living expenses in Germany includes typical prices for housing, groceries, education, health insurance, public transportation, and other costs.

3. Check visa requirements.

Do you and your family understand what is needed to immigrate to Germany? An EU member does not require a visa for entry or accommodation. EU/EFTA citizens who intend to stay longer than three months must register with the regional government, but German immigration regulations are stricter for people outside the EU/EFTA. You will need a visa if you are travelling to Germany from India.

The procedure and requirements for applying for a long-stay German visa are typically the same as for a visa for a short-term stay, if you are applying from your home country before leaving for Germany. If you want to apply after entering Germany, you must go to your neighborhood immigration office.

In addition to the necessary documentation, you typically need to provide the following:

• A job contract, documentation of your study placement, a marriage license, or some other form of proof of your justification for staying

• Evidence demonstrating the abilities needed for your job or study placement, as well as proof that any foreign degrees or certifications are recognized in Germany.

• Proof that you comprehend German at the level necessary for your work or study. You often need to know basic German to be eligible for a family visa as an adult.

Long-stay visas typically cost €75, or €37.50 for youngsters. You may apply with your spouse and any minor dependents, but each must complete a separate visa application. They could also postpone and apply for a family reunion visa.

4. Move your belongings.

If you’re relocating to Germany, you must plan how to get your belongings to your new home. Because this process may be so stressful, many ex-pats seek the help of relocation professionals. The extensive range of solutions available, from full-service relocation agencies to digital logistics platforms, makes it simple to analyse the worldwide shipping sector.

Professional movers can help you at any stage while travelling to Germany, from packing your personal belongings to helping you choose the right new home. However, some foreigners would transport their belongings to Germany through a global shipping company.

You may rest while managing the other aspects of your move by selecting the best international shipping business. While exploring, you can also check out the unique places to visit in Germany. Check ahead of time to avoid any last-minute shocks.

5. Manage your finances

Before travelling to Germany, you must have a stable financial situation so that you can support your family. You can better prepare by becoming aware of the costs of living in Germany, including both short-term and long-term financial planning. Keep the points mentioned below in mind before travelling to Germany from India.

• Before you go, research the financial options, including retail banks and mobile banking services. You can open a portable bank account before you arrive.

• Regardless of your needs, make insurance premium arrangements before leaving to ensure that your family’s belongings are sufficiently protected.

Additionally, you might need to send money quickly and effectively across borders to help with pressing financial demands. You can easily use an International Debit Card, which provides the following facilities-:

• Allows people to travel to more than 150 countries.
• Curated offers for hotel and other bookings.
• Facilitates contactless payments at stores, ensuring quicker transactions.

You can also use an online comparison tool to save money, get the best exchange rates, and choose the least expensive option for your international money transfers.

6. Get a vehicle

Do you aspire to be able to drive on Germany’s renowned autobahn? If so, before travelling to Germany, you should become familiar with the traffic laws in your new neighborhood. Once you’re settled there, you should consider if you’ll need your car. Many German cities have excellent public transportation options, and bike infrastructure is constantly being upgraded.

7. Set up your health insurance.

Health insurance is one of the most important things to arrange before travelling to Germany. Germany’s public healthcare system is one of the finest funds in Europe. However, residents can choose private or public coverage depending on their specific needs.

In order to have complete peace of mind, many ex-pats purchase private health insurance for themselves and their families. Therefore, research health insurance providers before moving to lessen the stress of obtaining coverage.

8. Get a place to stay.

Many housing options are accessible if you’re coming to Germany, even if you can’t buy your dream home. Germany offers a wide variety of housing options, from apartments in the city to mountain chalets and all in between. Before travelling to Germany from India, sort out the issue of where you will stay.

9. Start your job search.

Some foreigners with a job offer choose to move to Germany. Many people, though, will decide to relocate to Germany while still hunting for a job. For foreigners, there are several work prospects in Germany. It pays to do your research in advance because the available opportunities will differ significantly between places and sectors.

10. Child care and education

It’s crucial to arrange your children’s education as soon as possible if you’re travelling to Germany with your family. Although the German educational system is among the greatest in Europe, you need first complete your research to prepare. You need to figure out whether they will attend a public school or a school abroad. You will have to think and choose the best suitable option for you.

11. Enroll in language courses.

If you’re travelling to Germany, it’s imperative that you become fluent in the language of your new home. Because English is not widely spoken throughout the country, learning German can be highly helpful for integrating and obtaining employment. Enroll in German classes that fit your needs before you travel. You may use an app or sign up for an online course.

12. Check for pet restrictions

The Germans adore their dogs, which include alsatians and dachshunds. Check the pet policies if you have one to make sure your pet can move in with you in your new home because Germany may have animal restrictions that you need to familiarize yourself with while travelling to Germany. Check the situation early to avoid delays and disappointment later.

Conclusion

Nearly all key details have been pointed out in this article to make your travelling to Germany comfortable. The information stated above will make it simple for you to plan your trip.

Make sure you have your passport, visa, phone, and some cash in hand. Start packing up to a week before your trip, and give the goods you frequently use around the house additional care. These should be the last items you pack because they are the most important. Be packed at least a day before your trip so you can inspect your suitcase.