Hello, adventurers!
One of the most exciting stages of your Summer Work or Ausbildung journey in Germany is the time for packing your bags and making final preparations. However, there are some critical and legal preparations you need to make before going to Germany, and they are vital for getting through this process smoothly. Even a single forgotten document can turn all your plans upside down!
Here is the list of things you need to complete before flying to Germany, covering both legal procedures and practical everyday life.
I. Legal and Financial Preparations (The Absolute Essentials!)
This section covers the most critical steps for your visa process and your first days in Germany:
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Visa and Required Documents:
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Visa Approval: Make sure your visa has been approved and that the required sticker is in your passport.
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Copies of All Application Documents: Keep German/English copies and the originals of all documents, such as work/training contracts, acceptance letters, reference letters and transcripts, in a separate bag/folder.
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Biometric Photos: Carry a few recent biometric photos with you.
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Health Insurance:
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You must have valid travel health insurance before you legally start working or training in Germany. You will later switch to statutory insurance in Germany. Make sure your policy is valid in Germany.
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Financial Preparation:
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Blocked Account (Sperrkonto - for Ausbildung): If you are doing an Ausbildung, make sure the required amount in your blocked account is active and accessible.
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Euro: Bring enough cash in Euro to last the first month (approximately 500-1000 Euro). Check that your bank card is enabled for international use.
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Plane Ticket and Transportation:
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Don't leave your plane ticket until the last minute. Plan in advance how you will get from your arrival point in Germany (the airport) to your accommodation (train, bus, etc.) and book your ticket.
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II. Practical and Personal Preparations
These items will make your life in Germany easier:
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Accommodation Arrangements:
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You should save the location of where you will be staying on your phone and keep the address with you.
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Language and Communication:
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Learn basic German phrases (Thank you, Please, Hello, The bill, please, etc.).
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Make sure your phone is SIM-unlocked. You will need to get a German SIM card as soon as you land in Germany.
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What to Pack:
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Clothing: Although summers in Germany are warm, evenings can get cool and it can rain suddenly. Be sure to pack a raincoat/umbrella, a thick cardigan and comfortable walking shoes.
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Power Adapter: Don't forget to get a travel adapter compatible with the European plug standard (Type C/F).
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Personal Medications: If you take prescription medication regularly, bring a sufficient supply with you along with the prescription.
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Important Tip: Go Digital!
Save scanned digital copies of all your important documents (Passport, Visa, Contracts) to cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud, etc.). Even if your phone is stolen or your documents are lost, you can easily access these copies.
Being prepared and well-equipped for your new life and career in Germany will give you great confidence right from the start of the process. As EDU'X CONSULTING, we guide you through all the legal procedures so you can focus on the excitement of packing your bags!