Welcome to Munich! The first days after your arrival bring exciting challenges: From registering your address to important formalities at TUM, there is quite a bit to organize. We will accompany you every step of the way so that you can get off to a great start.
If you plan to stay in Munich for more than 90 days, you are required to register your address within two weeks of your arrival. This also applies if you move within the city.
What you need to register:
- A valid ID card or passport
- A completed registration form
- A landlord’s confirmation of residence (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung PDF, 86 KB)
You can find further information and the required forms on the website of your local registration office or citizen's office. The jurisdiction depends on where you live.
Stadt Garching, Einwohnermeldeamt
Rathausplatz 3, 85748 Garching
Online appointment
Tel.: 089-32089-444
Rathaus Straubing, Einwohnermeldeamt
Theresienplatz 2, 94315 Straubing (Entrance: Seminargasse 14)
Online appointment
Tel.: 0 94 21 944-0
| EU citizens Zentrales Bürgeramt Marktplatz 7, 74072 Heilbronn (Entrance Lohtorstraße) Online appointment Tel.: 07131 56-3800 | Non-EU citizens Ausländerbehörde Marktplatz 7, 74072 Heilbronn (same address, but different office) Online appointment (Registration family name A - Kt respect. Ku - Z) |
- You will receive your registration certificate immediately after registration. Keep this document in a safe place as it will be needed, for example, when applying for a residence permit or opening a bank account.
- Your tax identification number will be sent to you by post within 14 days of registration. You will need this later for your tax return.
Important information on interim solutions
If you have to stay temporarily in an interim solution such as a hotel or Airbnb accommodation, please note that landlords of such accommodation do not usually issue a landlord's certificate. However, this certificate is essential for registering your address. Therefore, make sure that you choose accommodation that issues you with a valid landlord's certificate at the beginning of your stay.
Additional note for employees
If you want to work in Germany with an employment contract, you will need a police clearance certificate. You can apply for this directly at the district administration department or citizens' office.
The jurisdiction for your application for a residence permit depends on your place of residence. Even if you do not have all the required documents, you should contact the responsible immigration office as soon as possible. There, you will receive a temporary document confirming the receipt of your application.
Required documents (both original and a copy):
- Confirmation of residence Registration certificate
- Valid passport (national passport)
- Valid visa (if required)
- Completed application form for the residence permit
- University degree with certified German or English translation
- Recognition of the foreign university degree: Proof of anabin recognition of your Master's degree and the university at which you studied. For further information, please contact your TUM admission chair. This document is also required by the TUM Human Resources Department.
- Health insurance certificate üvalid for at least 6 months. A travel insurance is not sufficient.
- Rental contract
- Biometric passport photo
Note: If additional documents are required, the immigration office will inform you accordingly.
To apply for a research visa or a residence permit according to §18d of the German Residence Act, a hosting agreement (Aufnahmevereinbarung) is required.
Here’s what to do:
- You can fill out parts of the form yourself. For missing information, contact your hosting chair.
- The hosting agreement must be signed by both you and the “authorized signatory of the research institution.” This is usually your supervisor at your hosting TUM chair or another authorized person.
Important details:
- You can find out which signatures are required from your hosting chair and your responsible contact person at TUM.
- Hosting agreements (Aufnahmevereinbarungen) without an official stamp may not be accepted. This could cause delays in the application process. Make sure the agreement is properly stamped and signed.
- Form Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis (Declaration of employment)
Note: TUM hosts can download a guide for filling out this form via the Dienstleistungskompass. Additionally, we are happy to provide a checklist for TUM hosts, which can be requested from the responsible contact person at your department. This checklist also includes a direct link to the completion guide.
- Letter of Intent: This document is prepared and issued by your hosting TUM chair.
- Temporary substitute for the Letter of Intent (only for the Munich Immigration Office): Due to an agreement between the Munich District Administration Office (KVR) and the Technical University of Munich (TUM) dated October 18, 2023, it is temporarily not necessary to submit a letter of intent or a draft employment contract. Instead, proof of a concrete job offer can be provided using the “Declaration of Employment” form (Erklärung zum Beschäftigungsverhältnis).
Note: Please make sure to upload the "Temporary Substitute for the Letter of Intent / Draft Employment Contract" when submitting your application, as the KVR Munich’s online contact form for applying for a residence permit normally requires an employment contract.
If you live in the state capital Munich, the Foreigners Office in the Kreisverwaltungsreferat (KVR) is responsible for your application. The application for a residence permit is submitted via an online contact form.
Please note:
- The online contact form is currently only available in German. Use the German names of the requested documents (see the list above).
- The application form can be downloaded directly via the online contact form.
- The processing fee is 100 EUR per person.
Steps to submit the application
- Open the form Residence permit - researchers and scientific staff and click on the button “Apply online”.
- Click "Starten".
- Optional registration: If you would like your data to be saved for future forms, click "Jetzt anmelden".
- Without registration: Click “Ohne Anmeldung fortsetzen” to fill out the form without registering.
- Confirm address: Answer the question "Ist die antragstellende Person in München gemeldet?" with “Ja” and click "Weiter".
- Select status: In the "Bitte Zutreffendes auswählen" field, choose:
- “Wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiter*in” if you are employed at TUM with an employment contract.
- “Gastwissenschaftler*in” if you are working without an employment contract.
Depending on your selection, the corresponding documents to upload will appear in the form.
- Provide your academic degree: If you have a foreign university degree, choose the option "Ausländischer Hochschulabschluss" in the field “Welchen Hochschulabschluss haben Sie?”.
The form will then ask you to upload proof of an anabin recognition of your Master's degree and the university where you studied.
If you live in one of the districts of Munich (outside the city of Munich, e.g., in Garching), the Landratsamt München is responsible for applying for your residence permit.
- Schedule an appointment online with the appropriate contact person for you:
- Go to the website of the website of the Landratsamt, choose your preferred language, and scroll down to “Contact persons”.
- Select the first letter of your last name from the list to find the correct contact person.
- You will be informed about the fee to be paid.
- Additionally, you will receive a list of the required documents you need for the application.
If you live in Freising, the Landratsamt Freising is responsible for applying for a residence permit.
- Schedule an appointment by email or phone with your contact person and specify that you are coming to TUM as a researcher.
- You can find your contact person by searching for the first letter of your surname under “Zuständigkeit”
- You will be informed about the fee to be paid.
- Additionally, you will receive a list of the required documents you need for the application.
If you live in Straubing, the Residents' Registration Office of the City of Straubing is responsible for applying for a residence permit.
Rathaus Straubing, Ausländeramt
Am Platzl 31, 94315 Straubing
Tel.: 09421/944-70150
E-mail: auslaenderamt(at)straubing.de
If you live in Heilbronn, the Foreigners' Registration Office of the City of Heilbronn is responsible for applying for a residence permit.
Bürgeramt, Ausländerbehörde
Marktplatz 7 (entrance Lohtorstraße), 74072 Heilbronn
Tel.: 07131 56-2064
E-mail: abh(at)heilbronn.de
Online appointment
If you do not live in one of these towns, but in a neighboring community, the responsible authority can be found at the town hall or district administration.
On the website of the Free State of Bavaria, you can find out which authority is responsible for your residence permit application: Enter your postal code or the name of the relevant location in the provided field. Send an email to the given address or contact person to schedule an appointment.
Important note: This information is only an initial overview and does not replace legal advice. Please contact the diplomatic mission or the local immigration office for binding information.
Additionally, please be aware that the immigration office in Munich is currently very busy, and processing your application may take approximately three to four months.
A comprehensive overview of financial standards and procedures in Germany will give you confidence during your stay. In this section, you’ll learn how to open a German bank account, which documents are required, and what payment options are available to you. You’ll also find valuable information about the German tax system – from the tax identification number to tax classes.
Open a German bank account
If you are staying in Germany for an extended period and regularly receiving a salary or scholarship, you should open an account with a German bank. This will make everyday payments and managing your finances much easier.
Required documents
The following documents are generally needed to open a bank account:
Contact your chosen bank in advance to ensure you have all the necessary documents. Some banks may also require:
- Proof of income
- Employment contract
Debit card and payment options
After opening an account, you will usually receive a debit card, which you can use to pay in most shops and restaurants. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash with you, as some smaller businesses may only accept cash payments.
Note: Requirements may vary depending on the bank. Be sure to check the terms and fees in advance.
If you receive a scholarship, you may be exempt from taxation under certain conditions according to German income tax law.
- Check with the organization awarding your scholarship to see if a tax exemption is possible.
- You should also clarify whether the scholarship paid in Germany is subject to taxation in your home country.
Further information can be found at Euraxess Germany.
If you have an employment contract, you are generally subject to taxation.
- Income tax is deducted directly from your gross salary each month.
- An overview of your monthly deductions can be found under Understanding Your Payslip.
To avoid being taxed simultaneously in Germany and your home country, many countries have signed so-called double taxation agreements with Germany.
- Find out about the regulations in your home country to take advantage of possible tax benefits.
In Germany, you are automatically assigned to one of the six tax classes. Once a year, you have the option to switch to a different tax class (e.g., from tax class 4 to 3).
- Tax class 1: Single, widowed, separated, or divorced
- Tax class 2: Single parent
- Tax class 3: Married (partner with higher income)
- Tax class 4: Married (equal earners)
- Tax class 5: Married (partner with lower income)
- Tax class 6: Second or additional income
In Germany, there is a mandatory insurance system that provides coverage in case of illness, accidents, old age, or unemployment. It includes health, pension, unemployment, long-term care, and accident insurance. With an employment contract, the employer and employee share the contributions, which amount to about 40% of the gross salary. The employer covers the accident insurance. The contributions are directly deducted from the gross salary. Self-employed individuals must arrange their own insurance.
You and your family members living in Germany must have adequate health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay. Furthermore, when applying for a visa, a travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR is often required. Details on health insurance requirement in Germany
The statutory pension insurance, along with company and private pension plans, is the most important pillar of the German pension system. Contributions to the statutory and company pension insurance (VBL) are directly deducted from the employee's gross salary.
Researchers who stay in Germany for a short period and do not have a pension entitlement can have their paid contributions refunded. Additionally, the transfer of pension rights within Europe is possible.
Further information can be found at Euraxess Germany.
Unemployment insurance in Germany is part of the social security system and provides financial support for employees who lose their job. It is funded through mandatory contributions from both employers and employees, with both typically sharing the cost equally. The employee's portion is directly deducted from the gross salary.
As part of unemployment insurance, the Employment Agency actively assists with job placement and offers training programs. Unemployment benefit recipients also receive financial support.
Further information can be found at Euraxess Germany.
Accident insurance is part of the statutory social security system and provides coverage for work-related accidents. However, it does not cover private accidents. The costs for statutory accident insurance are covered by the employer.
For more details, visit Euraxess Germany.
If you already have personal liability insurance in your home country, please check whether it also covers you and your family during your stay in Germany or if it can be extended accordingly. Note that the recommended coverage amount in Germany is often higher than the maximum coverage of your current policy — a minimum of three million euros is typically advised.
If you do not yet have personal liability insurance, it is strongly recommended to take one out in Germany. You can do this either online or in person after your arrival in Munich. The cost mainly depends on the coverage amount, the deductible, and the duration of the policy.
Without an employment contract:
PhD students, scholarship holders, or guests are generally not insured through TUM for risks such as laboratory damage or activities involving patients. If you are conducting research or teaching at TUM, please check with your contact person on-site to determine whether insurance coverage exists and to what extent, or if you need to arrange your own insurance.
The Extended Laboratory Insurance provides coverage for activities within Germany, while the Professional Liability Insurance applies worldwide and also includes private liability insurance.
With an employment contract:
Those working at TUM under an employment contract are generally insured for damages caused to the employer in the course of their professional activities – except in cases of intentional or grossly negligent behavior.
Employees are generally covered by accident insurance during working hours for work-related accidents. However, it is important to note that this insurance typically does not cover accidents that are not directly related to work.
Private accident insurance complements existing policies and covers additional costs that arise after an accident and are not covered by other insurance. This includes, for example, necessary modifications to make your home accessible in case of mobility issues after an accident, or the costs of prosthetics.
When registering a vehicle in Germany, you are required to have car insurance. Like other types of insurance, car insurance policies differ in terms of coverage limits and the specific coverage provided, such as whether other people driving the car are also insured.
It is also important to know that there is a difference between basic car insurance, which covers property or personal damage, and partial or comprehensive insurance, which also covers damage to your own vehicle.
- TUMonline account & TUM email address:
You will receive your PIN in writing with your onboarding documents. The TUM IT Support team has compiled useful information about their services and getting started at TUM in their IT guide for employees. - Apply for a TUM Employee Card:
This card serves as your personal ID, library card, and payment card (with employee discount) for all cafeterias operated by the Studentenwerk. If you're working at the Klinikum Rechts der Isar, you should apply for a MediCard instead. - Postdoc Mentoring Program:
As a postdoc researcher, you can join the TUM Mentoring for Scientists Program as a mentee. If you're a professor, you can participate as a mentor. - Subscribe to the TUM ForTe Postdoc mailinglist:
Stay informed about activities from the TUM Talent Factory, such as workshops and TUM Postdoc Days, as well as current postdoc calls and opportunities. - Explore free German courses at the TUM Language Center:
Register early to take advantage of free German courses offered by the TUM Language Center. - Refresh your English skills:
Improve your English in one of the free English Mobility Courses for employees, offered by the TUM Language Center. You can also benefit from the English Coaching Program and get support at the English Writing Center when writing articles. - Gain research and reaching experience abroad:
Enhance your research and teaching experience at one of TUM’s partner universities through Erasmus+ or the TUM Global Incentive Fund. - Expand your skills with professional development opportunities:
Take part in professional development programs at the TUM School of Management, the Carl von Linde Academy, or TUM Horizons. - Participate in sports courses:
Join one of the various sports courses available at the University Sports Center Munich. - Download the TUM Campus Map app:
Use the app to navigate all three main campuses and read the TUM Campus Code of Conduct. - Discover further points of contact at TUM:
Learn about specific offers and services at TUM.
- Apply online for a TUM GuestCard:
This card serves as your personal ID, library card, and payment card for all cafeterias operated by the Studentenwerk. If you work at the University Hospital, you should apply for a MediCard instead. - Register with the TUM Community:
Join and become a member of one of the many groups to connect with others. - Mentoring program for postdocs:
As a postdoc, you can participate in the TUM Mentoring for Scientists program as a mentee. If you are a visiting professor, you might be interested in joining the program as a mentor. - Subscribe to the TUM ForTe Postdoc mailing list:
Receive information about the activities of the TUM Talent Factory (e.g., workshops and TUM Postdoc Days) as well as current postdoc calls and opportunities. - Free German courses at the TUM Language Center:
Register early for the free German courses offered by the TUM Language Center. - Refresh your English skills:
Improve your English in one of the free English Mobility Courses for employees offered by the TUM Language Center. You can also take advantage of the English Coaching Program and get support at the English Writing Center when writing articles, essays, or even your CV. - Sports courses at the University Sports Center Munich:
Participate in one of the various sports courses offered at the University Sports Center Munich. - Download the TUM Campus Map app:
Use the app to navigate all three main campuses. - Discover further points of contact at TUM:
Learn about specific offers and services at TUM.
The cost of living in Munich depends on your personal needs and lifestyle. However, compared to other German cities, living in Munich is relatively expensive—especially when it comes to rent.
Average monthly expenses per person in Munich:
- Rent (including utilities) for a room in a shared flat or an unfurnished one-bedroom apartment: €900–1,500
If you are moving to Munich with a partner or family, your expenses will increase accordingly. The basic rent (excluding utilities) for a two-room apartment ranges from €1,200 to €1,600 per month. - Groceries: at least €200 per person
- Public transport: approx. €60
- Phone/internet/broadcasting fee: approx. €45
The TUM locations in Munich, Garching, and Freising are well connected by bus, tram, subway, and S-Bahn. For researchers with an employment contract at TUM, there is the option to purchase a job ticket. However, in most cases, purchasing the Deutschland-Ticket is cheaper. Please note that the Deutschland-Ticket is not available as a discounted job ticket for TUM employees.
Separate fares and regulations apply to the TUM campuses in Heilbronn and Straubing.
- Everyone living in Germany and officially registered at a residence is legally required to pay the licence fee, which funds public radio and television.
- After registering your address, you will usually receive a letter requesting payment. If you do not receive this letter, it is advisable to register online yourself to avoid potential late fees.
- If you are only staying in Germany temporarily and do not register your address, you are generally exempt from the broadcasting fee.
The fee is charged per household, not per person. This means that shared apartments or families only have to pay the fee once.
Emergency numbers
- Police: 110
- Fire department and medical emergencies: 112
These numbers are available 24/7 and should only be used in real emergencies.
Medical assistance (non-emergency)
Medical on-call service: 116 117
This nationwide hotline connects you with doctors outside regular office hours – for example in the evenings, on weekends, or public holidays.
Psychological support
Krisendienst Bayern (Mental Health Crisis Service): 0800 655 3000
Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Free and confidential.
Counseling is offered in over 120 languages – simply state your preferred language when the call begins.
Pharmacy emergency service
Pharmacy emergency number: 0800 00 22 8 33
(free from landlines; charges may apply from mobile phones)
Online search: You can also find the nearest emergency pharmacy online
➤ Every pharmacy displays a notice with the closest pharmacy on duty.
Support with communication
The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the German National Association for Student Affairs have published a helpful brochure. It explains key terms related to doctor’s visits, emergencies, and health insurance – with English translations. Especially helpful for international researchers and students.
Download the brochure “First Aid - An illustrated health dictionary” (PDF, 1 MB)
In Germany, there are nine national public holidays. Additionally, each federal state has its own legal holidays. Bavaria has the most public holidays, with 13, compared to other states. Catholic holidays are particularly significant in Bavaria.
Please note:
- On public holidays, most businesses, universities, and government offices are closed.
Public transportation usually operates on a Sunday schedule.
Overview of public holidays
- January 1 – New Year’s Day
- January 6 – Epiphany (observed in some states, official in Bavaria)
- Good Friday – date varies
- Easter Monday – date varies
- May 1 – Labor Day
- Ascension Day – date varies
- Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday) – date varies
- Corpus Christi – date varies (not nationwide, but observed in Bavaria)
- August 15 – Assumption of Mary (in Catholic communities in Bavaria)
- October 3 – German Unity Day
- November 1 – All Saints’ Day
- December 25 – Christmas Day
- December 26 – Second Day of Christmas
Important:
December 24 (Christmas Eve) and December 31 (New Year’s Eve) are not official public holidays, but TUM is closed on both days.