In short: In the first weeks, five things matter: register your address (within two weeks), receive your tax ID automatically by post, choose a health insurance fund, open a bank account and apply for your residence permit at the foreigners authority in good time before your visa expires.
Note: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. The law and the decisions of the competent authorities are decisive; rules can change. As of October 2026.
Registering your address
Anyone moving into a flat must register with the registration office within two weeks (§ 17 Federal Registration Act). You usually need your passport and the landlord's confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung). The registration certificate is needed for almost every further step.
Tax ID
After your first registration, the registration office sends your data to the Federal Central Tax Office (BZSt), which posts your tax ID to your address. If nothing arrives after three months, you can contact the BZSt. Make sure your name is on the letterbox. Your employer needs the tax ID for payroll.
Health insurance and bank account
Employees are subject to compulsory statutory health insurance (§ 5 SGB V) and can generally choose their fund (§ 173 SGB V). Tell your employer before your first working day. Banks offering consumer accounts must open a basic account for anyone lawfully resident in the EU if the legal conditions are met (§ 31 Payment Accounts Act).
Residence permit
The entry visa is time-limited. Apply for your residence permit at the foreigners authority where you live (§ 81 AufenthG) – book the appointment early so the application is filed before the visa expires.
How Berlin Tehran helps
We help healthcare professionals prepare their documents in an orderly way and coordinate with employers, following a transparent 8-step process with up to 90 days of support after arrival. We are specialised in Iran and support healthcare professionals from all countries where private recruitment is permitted (see our ethical recruitment rules). We do not provide legal advice; authorities make all decisions.
Apply as a healthcare professional For employers
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Frequently asked questions
When do I have to register my address?
Within two weeks of moving in (§ 17 Federal Registration Act).
How do I get my tax ID?
Automatically by post from the BZSt after registration.
Is health insurance compulsory?
Yes, for employees (§ 5 SGB V); you can generally choose the fund (§ 173 SGB V).
When do I apply for the residence permit?
At the local foreigners authority, in good time before your entry visa expires (§ 81 AufenthG).