Health insurance and bank account setup

Overview

Use this when you have just arrived and need health insurance and a bank account before your residence permit application. Health insurance is usually required before permit processing can begin.

Timing to be aware of

30 days after arrival

Reference only — your timing may differ. Confirm with the relevant office.

Key date to check

Arrival date

Common questions

Questions people often look up at this stage. Answers are general — confirm with the relevant office or a qualified professional.

• I need a bank account to sign my rental lease, but I can't get an Anmeldung without a lease—how do I break this loop?
• Should I choose public (GKV) or private (PKV) health insurance?
• Does it cost more to see a doctor in Germany if I'm not from the EU?
• Can I open a bank account before I have my official address registration?

Related events

• Open a Girokonto
  Critical
  14 days after arrival
• Check right to apply for Basiskonto
  High
  After arrival
• Confirm Haftpflichtversicherung enrollment
  High
  30 days after arrival
• Enroll in health insurance after arrival
  Critical
  14 days after arrival
• Register a Hausarzt
  High
  30 days after arrival