Moving checklist in Stuttgart

1. 1

   Secure Your Visa or Residence Permit

   essential

   If you're not an EU/EEA citizen, ensure your visa or residence permit is sorted well in advance. Check requirements with the German embassy in your home country.

2. 2

   Gather Essential Documents

   essential

   Collect all crucial paperwork: passport, birth certificate, academic diplomas, proof of funds, previous rental history, and any employment contracts. Have copies and digital scans ready.

3. 3

   Begin Your Housing Search Early

   essential

   Start looking for shared flats (WGs) on platforms like WG-Gesucht.de or local Facebook groups (e.g., 'WG Stuttgart'). Be prepared for a competitive market.

4. 4

   Understand German Rental Contracts

   recommended

   Familiarize yourself with terms like 'Untermietvertrag' (sublet), 'Hauptmietvertrag' (main lease), and 'Zeitmietvertrag' (fixed-term contract) before committing to anything.

5. 5

   Budget for Initial Costs and Rent Deposit

   essential

   Factor in your first month's rent, security deposit (Kaution, typically 2-3 months' rent), and potential moving expenses. Keep an emergency fund.

6. 6

   Arrange Travel and Temporary Accommodation

   essential

   Book your flights or train tickets and, if your long-term housing isn't immediately available, secure a hostel or Airbnb for your first few nights in Stuttgart.

7. 7

   Learn Basic German Phrases

   nice-to-have

   While many people speak English, knowing basic German greetings and phrases for everyday situations will greatly assist your integration and daily life.

8. 8

   Research Stuttgart's Neighborhoods

   recommended

   Explore areas like Bad Cannstatt, Vaihingen (near university), or West/Ost/Süd for their atmosphere, connectivity, and proximity to your work or studies.

9. 9

   Forward Your Mail to Germany

   nice-to-have

   Set up an international mail forwarding service or inform important contacts of your upcoming address change to Stuttgart to avoid missing crucial letters.

1. 1

   Register Your Address ('Anmeldung')

   essential

   Book an appointment online at your local Bürgerbüro immediately upon arrival. This is legally required within two weeks of moving to Stuttgart.

2. 2

   Open a German Bank Account

   essential

   Visit a local branch of Sparkasse, Commerzbank, or set up an account with an online bank like N26 or DKB. This is crucial for rent and salary.

3. 3

   Get a German SIM Card

   essential

   Purchase a local SIM card from providers like Telekom, Vodafone, or O2. This ensures you have a German number for official communication and daily use.

4. 4

   Obtain a Public Transport Pass (SSB)

   essential

   Familiarize yourself with Stuttgart's efficient S-Bahn and U-Bahn network. Buy a weekly or monthly ticket (e.g., 'MonatsTicket') from SSB for easy travel.

5. 5

   Explore Your Immediate Neighborhood

   recommended

   Locate essential services like grocery stores (Lidl, Rewe), pharmacies (Apotheke), and local bakeries (Bäckerei) near your new home.

6. 6

   Confirm Accommodation Details

   essential

   Ensure you have all keys, understand waste separation rules, and know how to operate heating and appliances in your shared flat. Document any existing damages.

7. 7

   Visit the Local 'Supermarkt'

   essential

   Stock up on groceries and basic household items. Familiarize yourself with German brands and product labeling.

8. 8

   Connect to Wi-Fi/Internet

   essential

   Ensure your internet connection is active. If not already set up in your WG, coordinate with flatmates or your landlord to initiate the process.

9. 9

   Exchange Currency if Needed

   nice-to-have

   While cards are widely accepted, having some Euros for small purchases, especially at local markets or smaller shops, is always a good idea.

1. 1

   Arrange Health Insurance ('Krankenversicherung')

   essential

   Secure German health insurance (e.g., Techniker Krankenkasse, AOK). This is mandatory for all residents and crucial for medical care.

2. 2

   Consider Liability Insurance ('Haftpflichtversicherung')

   recommended

   A 'Haftpflichtversicherung' is highly recommended in Germany. It covers damages you might accidentally cause to others' property or persons, including your rented flat.

3. 3

   Understand Waste Separation Rules

   essential

   Germany has strict recycling rules. Learn which bins (Restmüll, Papier, Gelber Sack, Bio) are for what waste to avoid fines and be a good citizen.

4. 4

   Register for the TV/Radio Fee ('GEZ')

   essential

   Every household in Germany is legally required to pay the 'Rundfunkbeitrag' (broadcasting fee) for public TV and radio. You'll receive a letter.

5. 5

   Explore Stuttgart's Cultural Offerings

   nice-to-have

   Visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum, Porsche Museum, Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, or enjoy the Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden to get to know your new city.

6. 6

   Look for Language Exchange Partners

   nice-to-have

   Join local groups or use apps like Tandem or Meetup to find language exchange partners, improving your German while making new friends.

7. 7

   Join Local Expat or Student Groups

   recommended

   Connect with fellow expats or students through university organizations, social media groups, or local clubs to build your network and find support.

8. 8

   Set Up Utilities (if applicable)

   essential

   If you're the main tenant, register for electricity, gas, and internet with providers like EnBW or local internet companies. Your landlord might assist.

9. 9

   Obtain a Tax ID Number ('Steuer-ID')

   essential

   Your 'Steueridentifikationsnummer' will be mailed to you after 'Anmeldung'. You'll need it for employment, banking, and other official purposes.

10. 10

    Register with a Doctor or Dentist

    recommended

    It's advisable to find a general practitioner (Hausarzt) and dentist soon after securing health insurance, especially if you have ongoing medical needs.

• Book your Bürgerbüro 'Anmeldung' appointment online weeks in advance; walk-in slots are rare. Bring your 'Wohnungsgeberbestätigung' (landlord confirmation) to avoid delays.
• For housing viewings in Stuttgart, arrive promptly, dress smartly, and have all your documents (Schufa, proof of income) ready to make a strong impression.
• Utilize the SSBgo app for real-time public transport information and ticket purchases; it's essential for navigating Stuttgart's extensive network efficiently.
• Don't underestimate 'Haftpflichtversicherung'. For a small annual fee, it protects you from significant costs for accidental damages, crucial for shared living.
• Many landlords and WGs prefer direct debit for rent payments. Ensure your German bank account is set up promptly and you understand SEPA direct debit mandates.

This guide is tailored specifically for Stuttgart, addressing its unique housing market challenges, the mandatory 'Anmeldung' process at the local Bürgerbüro, and integrating into its distinct public transport system managed by SSB. The advice considers the city's blend of industries and student life, providing practical steps for a smooth transition into this particular German metropolitan area.

• Best neighborhoods
• Cost of living
• First month guide
• Student discounts
• Public transport
• Pet-Friendly living
• Neighbourhoods

• Rental contracts
• Tenant rights
• Deposit protection
• Registration guide
• Flatshare etiquette
• Phone & internet