When I moved to Germany back in the winter of 2012, I had a really tough time. I still remember, for the first few weeks, I was getting down like 2–3 stops after my home and walking all the way back—because I didn’t know you had to press the stop button for the bus to actually stop.

I was overwhelmed, lonely, and totally unprepared. I made pretty much every mistake you can imagine. But over time, I figured things out. Now, more than a decade later, I want to share what I’ve learned—so you don’t have to stumble the way I did.

From closed Sundays and strict recycling rules to the surprising normality of nudity and the unshakable punctuality obsession, this is everything I wish someone had told me before I packed my bags and got on that plane.

Just arrived in Germany and feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry—this guide walks you through the 10 most important things you need to do right after landing. From getting a SIM card and registering your address (Anmeldung) to opening a bank account, getting health insurance, and even understanding German taxes, we’ve broken everything down step by step to make your transition smoother. Whether you're here for work, study, or a fresh start, this checklist will help you hit the ground running.

Thinking of moving to Germany?
With its strong economy, world-class healthcare, and unbeatable work-life balance, Germany has become a dream destination for many professionals and families worldwide. But is it all sunshine, sausages, and smooth autobahns? Not quite. While this country offers incredible opportunities, it also comes with challenges that might make you think twice. In this blog, I’ll share 10 reasons why moving to Germany could be the best decision of your life—and 5 reasons why it might not be. Based on real experiences and facts, this guide will help you make an informed choice before packing your bags.