Planning your stay

Preparations

A number of things should be prepared in advance of your arrival in Germany (as applicable to your specific situation):

• Register with the Welcome Centre
• Get in touch with the German diplomatic mission abroad in good time to clarify any questions regarding entry and, if necessary, to apply for a visa (including for any family members who are accompanying you)
• Look for accommodation in Germany – for example in one of our guest houses
• Arrange health insurance for yourself and, if applicable, for your family
• Prepare for a stay with your family: Enquire early about childcare/schools in the local area – the Family-friendly University can assist with this
• If you require internet access immediately upon arrival, we can provide a guest account for the initial period – please contact us in advance
• Attend our Welcome Sessions – where possible, before your arrival in Germany

Documents

Depending on the nature and duration of your stay, you will need some of the following documents when you arrive in Germany:

• Passports or equivalent identity documents for you and any accompanying family members (with a visa if required)
• Birth certificates for you and any accompanying family members (with a German translation if required)
• Marriage certificate (please check with the German diplomatic mission abroad in good time regarding the necessary formalities for the recognition of your marriage in Germany, e.g. certification or translation)
• Certificates of your academic qualifications (if necessary originals or certified copies, with translation if required)
• Vaccination record
• International driving licence or foreign driving licence (with a translation if necessary)
• If you are entering into an employment contract with the University, you may need additional documents – please clarify this in advance with your host chair or the Administrative Department 3: Human Resources and Legal Affairs

Please check which of these documents apply to you. Please note that this list is not exhaustive; depending on your personal circumstances, further documents may be required.

If you have any questions, please always feel free to reach out to us.