A stress-free relocation to Germany with AGS

If you are planning to relocate to Germany, there are a few things you should know about the country's immigration and relocation process. While some are easy, like making sure you have a valid passport, other parts of the process can be more complicated, especially if it’s your first time relocating abroad.

Consulting with a relocation and immigration company like AGS Relocation can help to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. AGS Relocation offers a full range of relocation services, including tax consultancy, immigration services, and destination services.

So what bases should you cover when planning your relocation to Germany and how can AGS Relocation help? Here is a brief overview. 

1. Finding a job

Unless you are already employed in Germany or have enough money to support yourself, you will need to find a job to be able to stay in the country. This is why it's important that you take your time finding the right job with the right company.

There are a few options available to you when it comes to finding a job in Germany. You can start by searching for jobs on websites like Indeed, Monster, or IamExpat Jobs. You can also contact German companies directly and enquire about open positions, or work with a recruitment agency that specialises in finding jobs for internationals in Germany. 

If you have already found a job in Germany but your relocating partner or spouse has not, they may benefit from AGS Relocation spousal support which includes career counselling.

2. Getting a visa and a residence permit

Most non-EU citizens need to apply for a visa to enter Germany (with the exception of nationals of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and the US). If you need a visa, you can apply for one at the German consulate in your home country. The type of visa you need depends on the reason for your stay: will you be studying, working or just visiting? 

Once you have arrived in Germany, you can apply for a residence permit, which allows you to stay in the country for an extended period. AGS Relocation can assist you with getting your residence permit upon arrival, as well as handling the paperwork for you so that you can focus on setting up your new life in Germany and settling in. 

3. Find a home for your family and a school for your kids

Other important aspects to consider before you even begin packing your bags are housing and schooling. It’s very important to have a place to call your own, whether it’s an apartment, condo or house. It is also very important to find the right school for your children. 

AGS Relocation can help you with these two vital steps in advance of your move, helping you with the house search, setting up the lease arrangements and managing all moving formalities, including making sure that repairs have been completed on the property, if required, and utilities have been connected, where possible. 

When it comes to finding the best school for your children, AGS Relocation can help by providing you with information about the German school system. They can also prepare a shortlist of local and international schools for you to consider, arrange school visits and obtain application forms. With thorough planning, you can settle in smoothly.

4. Shipping your belongings

Once you have everything in order, it's time to start packing your belongings and shipping them to Germany. AGS Relocation offers professional door-to-door relocation solutions, to and from anywhere in the world. They will pick up your belongings from your home and deliver them to your new German address - giving you one less thing to worry about. 

AGS Relocation can also provide storage services if you need to store your belongings before or after your move, as well as a pet transfer service for your furry friends, and comprehensive transit insurance for your peace of mind. 

5. Arriving in Germany

Once you arrive in Germany, the first thing you need to do is go to the local citizens’ office and register your address. You will need to bring your passport and rental agreement with you. This is an important step towards setting up your life in Germany, as you need your registration documents to complete a number of other administrative tasks, including opening a bank account, taking out health insurance, and applying for a residence permit. 

AGS Relocation can assist you with registering your address with hands-on support. There are four AGS branches in Germany, and an area consultant network that covers the entire country. 

AGS Relocation can also help you get settled into your new home with a range of other settling-in services, including a local area tour. That way you’ll know where to go for the freshest bread, how to get to the local library and how to make an appointment with the local doctor or dentist. They can also help you set up utilities and open a local bank account.

6. Integrating into German society

Germany is a diverse and multicultural country. There are many different ways to integrate into German society, depending on your interests and lifestyle. Some things you could do include joining local clubs and organisations, participating in cultural events and festivals, or simply taking the time to get to know your neighbours. You can even enrol in German language classes, to ensure that you know the basic day-to-day phrases to get by. 

AGS Relocation can help if you’re eager to join a local language school, attend intercultural training sessions or would like spousal support for your partner. 

AGS Relocation has you covered

No matter where you settle in Germany, with branches in Berlin, Erlangen, Munich and Koblenz, AGS Relocation is here to provide you with hands-on support to help you make the most of your expatriate adventure and make sure your move is smooth and stress-free. Find out more about their relocation services via the website or get in touch with their relocation specialists.