A young man working with a huge mixer in a studio

YOUR FIRST STEPS BEFORE MOVING

Our comprehensive guidance helps you plan your move, so you can put everything in place to make coming here easy.

GET RESIDENCE PERMITS AND VISAS

If you or your staff are moving to Berlin from a country outside the EU, you normally require a visa or permit to live and work in Germany. The Business Immigration Service (BIS) can provide helpful advice and information for all new arrivals and their families.

WANT TO
WORK IN
BERLIN?

Work in Europe’s most vibrant startup scene or at one of the many globally-established corporations that call the city home.

WANT TO
FREELANCE IN
BERLIN?

Freelancing promises flexibility but takes planning. Find out what to consider and how to register as a freelancer in Berlin.

MOVING WITH FAMILY

Berlin is an incredibly family-friendly city. Whether there’s a stay-at-home parent in your family or not, you’ll have the support you and your children need. There is a variety of high-quality public and private daycare centers and schools in Berlin, and family support programs in every borough.

FIND A HOME

With twelve boroughs and countless character-rich neighborhoods, Berlin has everything from traditional houses, high-rise flats, and architectural landmarks to choose from. It’s competitive though, so start early and don’t be shy about hiring some help to find the right home.

REGISTER YOUR ADDRESS

After you find your new home in Berlin, you’ll need to register it at the citizens’ office or “Bürgeramt” for your local area.The registration process, known as “Anmeldung” in German, is simple and can easily be done by making an appointment.