Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do right after you land in Germany, whether you’re a tourist, student, or on a work trip:
✅ 1. Clear Immigration & Customs
- Have your passport, visa, and proof of accommodation ready.
- Immigration officers may ask:
- Purpose of visit
- Return ticket or onward travel
- Travel insurance (if applicable)
Tip: EU/Schengen passport holders use separate fast-track lanes.
💼 2. Collect Your Baggage
- Head to the correct baggage claim belt shown on arrival screens.
- Report any lost/delayed luggage at the airline’s service desk near the carousel.
📶 3. Get Internet/Phone Access
- Buy a local SIM card at the airport (Telekom, Vodafone, or O2 kiosks).
- Or enable international roaming if your home plan supports it.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at most airports (e.g., Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin).
💶 4. Withdraw or Exchange Money (Optional)
- ATMs (“Geldautomat”) are better than airport exchange counters for rates.
- Germany is increasingly card-friendly, but cash is still widely used, especially at local shops and cafes.
🚆 5. Travel to Your Accommodation
- Use public transport (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, DB trains, trams) — reliable and cheap.
- Buy tickets from machines or apps like:
- DB Navigator (for long-distance)
- BVG (Berlin), MVV (Munich), HVV (Hamburg) for local travel
- Taxis are available but costly.
Tip: Validate paper tickets before boarding.
🛏️ 6. Check In to Your Hotel/Stay
- Present your passport and booking confirmation.
- Some hotels may ask for local tax (~1–5 EUR per night).
📝 7. Register Your Stay (Long-Term Visitors)
If staying over 90 days (students, workers):
- Register your address at the local Bürgeramt (Citizens Office) within 14 days.
- Required documents:
- Passport
- Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord letter)
- Rental contract
🍽️ 8. Eat & Hydrate
- Try local food at the airport or your area (pretzel, doner, or currywurst).
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Supermarkets like REWE, Aldi, or Edeka offer snacks and meals.
📲 9. Download Useful Apps
- DB Navigator (trains), Google Maps, BVG/MVV, Too Good To Go (food deals)
- Google Translate or DeepL for German-English translation
🚨 10. Stay Aware of Local Emergency Numbers
- Police: 110
- Ambulance/Fire: 112
