Germany offers excellent career opportunities, competitive salaries, and a strong social protection system. But before you can start your new job, there are a few administrative steps you must complete, including getting the right identification numbers.
Unlike Spain, which uses a single identification number (the NIE), Germany separates administrative processes. Each number serves a specific function, and together they allow you to work legally and access social benefits. This guide walks you through every step to get started.
Step 1. Register Your Address (Anmeldung)
Everything begins with the Anmeldung ,Germany’s official address registration process. You must register your residence at your local Bürgeramt(town hall) within 14 days of moving in. This step is essential to receive your Tax Identification Number, open a bank account, and sign official documents.
Finding a Mietvertrag as a Foreigner
To register your address, you need a Mietvertrag (rental contract). Finding one can be challenging for newcomers, especially in large cities such as Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, or Hamburg, where demand exceeds supply.
Landlords often prefer tenants with a German credit record (Schufa), stable income, and local references. If you are new to Germany and don’t have a Schufa yet, you can strengthen your rental application by providing:
Proof of stable income or sufficient savings
A signed job offer or employment contract
A bank guarantee (Mietbürgschaft) or a reference from a previous landlord
Many expats start with temporary accommodation through platforms like Wunderflats, Spotahome, or HousingAnywhere, or find a shared flat (WG) on WG-Gesucht.de. Once you have a valid rental agreement, you can register your address at the Bürgeramt.
You will need:
A valid passport or ID
Your Mietvertrag (rental contract)
A landlord confirmation form (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)
Where to book an appointment: Example for Berlin: Deadline: Within 14 days of moving in.
After this registration, your data is automatically transmitted to the tax authorities, which triggers the creation of your Tax Identification Number (Steueridentifikationsnummer).
Step 2. Obtain Your Tax Identification Number (Steueridentifikationsnummer / IdNr)
Your Tax Identification Number is automatically created after your Anmeldung and sent to you by post within one to two weeks. It stays with you for life.
You will need your IdNr for:
Signing your employment contract
Receiving your salary
Filing your taxes
Opening a bank account
If you do not receive it within two weeks, you can request it online.
Step 3. Get Your Social Security Number (Sozialversicherungsnummer)
The Social Security Number connects you to Germany’s welfare and insurance system. It ensures your contributions to health insurance, pension, and unemployment benefits are recorded correctly.
How to obtain it:
Choose a public health insurance provider (Krankenkasse).
Once you’re registered, the Deutsche Rentenversicherung(German Pension Office) will automatically issue your number and send it by post.
Official Information here In most cases, your employer will assist you with this process during onboarding.
Step 4. For Freelancers: Apply for a Tax Number (Steuernummer)
If you plan to work as a freelancer or self-employed professional, you need a Steuernummer in addition to your personal IdNr. This number allows you to invoice clients, declare income, and pay VAT.
How to apply:
Complete the “Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung” (tax registration form).
Submit it to your local Finanzamt (tax office).
Receive your Steuernummer within two to four weeks.
1. Can foreigners register their address in Germany without a permanent contract? Yes. You can register your address with a temporary rental agreement (Zwischenmiete), as long as your landlord provides a confirmation form (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung).
2. What happens if I don’t register my address within 14 days? Delaying your Anmeldung can result in fines and delays in receiving your tax and social security numbers. Always register as soon as you move in.
3. Can I work in Germany without a Tax ID? No. Your employer needs your IdNr to process your salary and declare taxes. You can start work, but payment may be delayed until your number is active.
4. Do freelancers need both a Steuernummer and an IdNr? Yes. The IdNr is your personal tax ID, while the Steuernummeris required to invoice clients and report business income.
5. How long does it take to get a Social Security Number? Usually between one and three weeks after registering with a public health insurance provider.
6. Can I use my foreign credit record instead of a Schufa when renting? Not officially, but you can strengthen your application with proof of income, a work contract, or a Mietbürgschaft (bank guarantee).
Before you start working in Germany, make sure you have:
Completed your address registration (Anmeldung)
Received your Tax Identification Number (IdNr)
Received your Social Security Number (Sozialversicherungsnummer)
(If self-employed) Obtained your Tax Number (Steuernummer)
Once these are in place, you are officially ready to work in Germany. Wilkommen!
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