ExpatDesk

Figure out Germany — in English

German bureaucracy, step by step

Tell us your situation — just arrived, working here, or staying long-term — and follow clear paths with checklists, official sources, and free tools.

Start hereBrowse guides
33 guidesFree calculatorsVerified sources

Pick your path

Follow steps in order — not a random list of topics.

Just arrived

Your first weeks in Germany

You landed with a visa or EU freedom of movement — now register, insure yourself, and open a bank account before deadlines bite.

  • Anmeldung within 14 days
  • Health insurance before day 90
  • Bank account for salary and rent
View path →

Working here

Employment, tax, and your payslip

Understand what your employer deducts, how tax classes work, and what to do if your job situation changes.

  • Decode your German payslip
  • Compare tax classes and net pay
  • Know your rights if you lose your job
View path →

Staying long-term

Visas, renewal, and building toward permanence

Renew your permit on time, keep pension contributions on track, and prepare for permanent residence — guides for the long game.

  • Renew before your permit expires
  • Track pension years for PR
  • Driving and vehicle registration
View path →

All guides A–Z

In-depth walkthroughs when you know exactly what you need.

Anmeldung

Register your address in Germany — documents, appointments, and city-specific tips.

12 min read →

Health Insurance

Public vs private insurance, what you need as a new arrival, and how to enroll.

11 min read →

Bank Account

Open a German bank account as a foreigner — required documents and best options.

8 min read →

Tax ID

Understand Steuer-ID vs Steuernummer and when you need each one.

6 min read →

Freelancer Registration

Register as self-employed with the Finanzamt — Freiberufler vs Gewerbe, tax setup, and invoicing.

10 min read →

Kindergeld (Child Benefit)

Claim €259/month per child — eligibility for expats, required documents, and Familienkasse application.

9 min read →

View all 33 guides →

Free tool

What will you actually take home?

German contracts quote gross pay. Our salary calculator shows your real monthly net after tax, church tax, and social contributions — with every deduction explained in English.

Calculate net salary

Interactive checklists

Track your progress — saved locally on your device.

Official sources

Every guide links to government websites for verification.

Mobile-first

Designed for reading on your phone during your commute.