Getting Started in Germany

Please note that the health insurance needs to be one of your first steps in Germany since it is a requirement for enrolment.

The German sector is subdivided in public and private health insurances. As a student below 30 years, you can choose between a public and a private health insurance but be aware that this decision is irreversible. If you are older than 30 years, you have to take a private health insurance.

Detailed explanations can be found on the following websites:
Tips about German Statutory Health Insurance – How To Germany
Health Insurance in Germany - The German Healthcare System - Germany Visa

German words and phrases related to medical treatment, health care, diseases and injuries can be found here.

Emergency telephone numbers

• Police: call 110

• Ambulance or fire brigade: call 112

As a general rule for any bureaucratic procedures, it is good to bring more information with you rather than discovering that you are missing an important document.

Once you have moved to Düsseldorf and found a room or apartment, you must register with the Registration Office (Amt für Einwohnerwesen), often referred to as "Einwohnermeldeamt" or "Bürgerbüro", of the city you live in within a week. In Düsseldorf the main office is placed in the "Dienstleistungszentrum" just behind the central station. The tutors will assist you while the procedure of the registration and help you with the completion of the required forms.

Central Registration Office Düsseldorf (Dienstleistungszentrum)
Willi-Becker-Allee 7, 40227 Düsseldorf
Phone +49 211-8991
Fax +49 211-89-29035

Office hours
Monday and Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A complete list of all registration offices can be found here.

For the registration, you need to bring:

• your passport (including your visa)

• your rental contract

• the registration form

After you completed the registration, you will receive a registration confirmation (Anmeldebestätigung). Keep this document, since you will need it in order to get your residence permit and in order to open bank account.

If you happen to move to new accommodation during your stay or return to your home country, you are obliged to notify the Registration Office within one week.