← BlogAugust 5, 20225 min readEditorial teamDEUAENRU
For Workers
Working Abroad: Your Checklist Before You Leave
Good preparation saves stress. Here is everything to settle and pack before you leave for work in Germany.
1. Documents
Your passport or ID must be valid. People from non-EU countries need a visa or residence permit with work authorisation. Make copies of all documents and save photos of them on your phone. Exactly which papers you need is explained in Working in Germany: documents.
2. Employment contract and conditions
Get the contract in writing before you leave. Since 1 August 2022 employers must document the essential working conditions in writing, including hourly pay, working hours, place of work and notice periods. Check that everything is clear and complete.
3. Insurance
Find out how you are covered for illness. In Germany, compulsory insurance normally applies from the first working day. Take your health insurance card from your home country or the European Health Insurance Card, if you have one.
4. Money and bank account
Plan some cash for the first days, because the first pay often comes only at the end of the month. For pay you need an account, usually an IBAN is enough. Ask how and when you will be paid. More in Understanding Your German Payslip.
5. Housing and travel
Have the address, cost and contact person for your housing confirmed, as described in Housing While Working in Germany. Clarify your travel day, arrival time and who will pick you up.
6. Luggage
Work clothing, sturdy shoes, weatherproof clothing, towel, toiletries, charger, regular medication and an adapter. Ask beforehand what the employer provides.
7. Emergencies and contacts
Save your contact person’s number and the Europe-wide emergency number 112. Give someone at home your address and phone number.
Quick checklist
- Passport/ID, visa or permit, copies
- Written contract with hourly pay and working hours
- Health insurance clarified
- Cash and IBAN
- Housing and travel confirmed
- Luggage packed
- Emergency numbers saved
Frequently asked questions
What matters most before leaving?
Valid documents and a written employment contract with pay, hours and location.
Do I need a German bank account in advance?
Not necessarily. A foreign account with an IBAN is often enough. Ask your employer.
How much money should I take?
Enough for the first days, since the first pay often arrives only at the end of the month.
Which emergency number applies in Germany?
The Europe-wide 112 for fire and ambulance, 110 for the police.