North Rhine-Westphalia · Newcomer guide

Settling in Bonn

Bonn's international institutions (the UN campus, DHL and Deutsche Telekom) mean many offices are used to English-speaking newcomers, and appointments are usually easier than in nearby Cologne. Work through the steps below — each guide lists the exact documents to bring.

Typical monthly cost in Bonn: ~€1.810 (rent + essentials). See the full city guide →

When you arrive

Register your address (Anmeldung) in Bonn

Anmeldung

Settling in Bonn

When you arrive

Register your address (Anmeldung) in Bonn

Get your tax ID & tax class in Bonn

Open a bank account in Bonn

Sign up for health insurance in Bonn

Apply for a residence permit in Bonn

Find a place to live in Bonn

Get a SIM or phone contract in Bonn

Extend your residence permit in Bonn

As you settle in

Exchange your driving licence in Bonn

Claim child benefit (Kindergeld) in Bonn

Get a public transport ticket in Bonn

Register as a freelancer in Bonn

File an income-tax return in Bonn

Register a car (Kfz-Zulassung) in Bonn

Apply for parental allowance (Elterngeld) in Bonn

Apply for housing benefit (Wohngeld) in Bonn

Find a daycare place (Kita) in Bonn

Enrol your child in school in Bonn

Apply for German citizenship in Bonn

Apply for permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) in Bonn

Get a German driving licence (driving school) in Bonn

Track your move to Bonn in your pocket