After arrival: checklist for the first weeks

In what order to do things after you arrive in Berlin.

1. Housing contract and move-in confirmation from the landlord: Housing.
2. Register your address within two weeks: Registration.
3. Health insurance: employees choose a statutory health fund and register with it; the employer needs the fund's name: Social security and health.
4. Bank account: a basic account is a legal right: Money and banking.
5. Tax ID arrives by post; give it to your employer: Taxes.
6. Written employment contract and pay slips: Working as an employee.
7. Children: Kindergeld application, Kita and school: Benefits, Family.
8. Jobless? Register with the Employment Agency early: Your rights.
9. Know where to turn: Faire Mobilität and BEMA.

Keep copies of all contracts, pay slips and messages with your employer and landlord. Avoid anyone who asks for money to "arrange" any of these steps: Scams.