After
your arrival
Organisation is everything – and studying in Saxony is no exception here. You’ve chosen your subject, found your university, and now it’s time to create your ideal living environment. This includes dealing with the authorities as well as setting up a bank account and attending orientation events. Sounds like a lot? Don’t worry, you can take it step by step.
Arrive first, then register
Once you have arrived in Saxony and found accommodation, you should register with the residents’ registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) within one to two weeks. The deadline may vary depending on the office – the important thing is the date on which you make the appointment, not the actual date of the appointment. At your appointment you will fill out a form and receive your registration confirmation. You will also need this to apply for a residence permit if you come from outside the EU. In some regions, the residents’ registration office is also called the Bürgerbüro or Bezirksamt.
To register, you will need:
- Identity card or passport (+ visa)
- Confirmation of residence (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung), completed and signed by the landlord or landlady
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Birth certificates of any children in original, with official translation (if applicable)
Registration is free of charge. Keep the confirmation of registration in a safe place – you will need it if you move house, for example.
The confirmation of residence confirms your place of residence in Germany. You can download the form online and ask your landlord or landlady to fill it out. In student halls of residence, Student Services will take care of this for you.
Students from the EU, the EEA or Switzerland do not require a residence permit. All others must apply for one at the immigration authority within the first three months. It costs around 100 euros and is usually valid for one to two years. To extend it, you must still be within the standard period of study – you can obtain confirmation of this from your university. Submit your application in good time before the expiry date.
Documents for the immigration authority:
- Valid passport (+ visa)
- Confirmation of registration
- Proof of health insurance
- Certificate of enrolment from your German university
- Tenancy agreement or confirmation of accommodation
- Passport photo (biometric)
Opening a bank account
A current account allows you to make regular payments such as rent, internet, telephone or insurance securely and conveniently by standing order or direct debit. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs throughout Germany, although fees may apply depending on your bank. Cashless payment with your EC card is possible at many checkouts without any problems. Current accounts are usually free of charge for students – a real bonus. However, your debit card will only work to a limited extent abroad, usually only if it is connected to the Maestro system or a similar international network. Before travelling, you should therefore check with your bank to find out how you can use your card abroad.
Whether you open your account with a branch bank or an online bank is entirely up to you. While branch banks offer personal service on site, online banks allow you to carry out all banking transactions conveniently online. You can find suitable offers in almost every town and city – or you can find out more directly online.
Good to know
Be careful not to confuse your bank account with your blocked account. You will need the blocked account in addition to prove your financial means before you start your studies.
Welcome to your degree programme
You’re sure to have a few questions at the beginning of your studies. Don’t worry, many of your soon-to-be fellow students will be feeling the same way. That’s why universities in Saxony offer helpful orientation events. You can also contact your International Office at any time.