There are frequent queries about the following points in the documents:
- Tax identification number: By registering for the first time in Germany (after entering the country), a notification is generated to the Federal Central Tax Office, which then sends a tax identification number by mail to the registered address. To ensure delivery, the name must be clearly recognizable on the mailbox. The tax ID can usually only be sent to the LBV after entering Germany and often only after the start of the employment contract. After the tax ID has been transmitted to the LBV, the tax class will be adjusted retroactively (from the date of notification) and the excess tax withheld will be automatically refunded the next month.
- Residence permit: Scientific employees who enter Germany with a visa are usually not yet able to present a residence permit for the entire period of employment. They first need the employment contract in order to be able to apply for the residence permit at the Foreigners' Office. They can get support from the Welcome Centre with this matter.
- Bank account: A German bank account can only be opened after entering Germany. The bank details should then be submitted to the Human Resources Department as soon as possible so that the LBV can arrange for salary payments.
- Health Insurance: Employees have the right to enroll in a health insurance plan of their choice. If they do not exercise their right to choose, they will be compulsorily insured by the LBV (usually with the AOK). However, a problem often arises because the LBV registers them with the AOK Rheinland/ Hamburg. However, the AOK Rheinland/Hamburg cannot accept members who live in the Ruhr area, because the AOK Nordwest is responsible here. Therefore, we recommend that you make use of your right of choice and register yourself with a health insurance company after entering Germany.