Pre-Departure Checklist for Indian Students Moving to Germany (2026)

Pankaj Mahor

Author

June 01, 2026

Pre-Departure Checklist for Indian Students Moving to Germany (2026)

TL;DR: Before you fly, sort your documents (passport, visa, admission letter, APS, blocked-account proof, insurance), arrange money (a German IBAN via N26 and a forex card), book temporary accommodation, and pack for German weather. In your first week, complete your Anmeldung, finalise health insurance, and activate a local SIM. Preparation is what makes the landing smooth.

Quick checklist

Category	Key items
Documents	Passport, visa, admission letter, APS, transcripts
Money	German IBAN (N26), forex card, some cash
Insurance	Health insurance confirmation
Housing	Temporary accommodation booked
First week	Anmeldung, SIM, health insurance, bank

The difference between a stressful first month in Germany and a smooth one is almost always preparation. Use this checklist so nothing important is left to chance.

Documents to carry (hand luggage, not checked)

Keep all originals and copies in your cabin bag:

Passport with your student visa
University admission letter (Zulassungsbescheid)
APS certificate
Academic transcripts and certificates
Blocked-account confirmation
Health insurance confirmation
Accommodation documents and any landlord contact
Passport photos (German spec)

Money and banking

Open an N26 account for a German IBAN before or on arrival
Carry a student forex/travel card to avoid high exchange fees
Bring some euros in cash for your first days
Know that your first blocked-account release can take a couple of weeks

Health insurance

Confirm your health insurance (public student rate if under 30) before you go; you need proof to enrol. Do not rely on an unaccepted travel plan; see Volume 2's health insurance guide.

What to pack

Weather-appropriate clothing (German winters are cold; layer up)
A universal power adapter (Germany uses Type C/F plugs, 230V)
Essential medicines with prescriptions
Some familiar food items and spices, within customs limits
Documents folder (physical and digital backups)

Pack light on things you can buy cheaply in Germany, and heavy on documents and winter wear.

Book temporary accommodation

Unless you have confirmed permanent housing, book short-term accommodation for your first week or two so you can view places in person and avoid signing blind.

Your first week in Germany

Move into your accommodation and get the landlord confirmation.
Complete your Anmeldung at the Bürgeramt.
Finalise your bank account and health insurance enrolment.
Get a local SIM/mobile plan.
Enrol at your university and collect your student ID and semester pass.

Land in Germany fully prepared

A smooth arrival sets the tone for your whole experience. GradGermany supports Indian students with pre-departure preparation, airport pickup, and orientation.

See airport pickup & orientation or get a free profile evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Passport with visa, admission letter, APS certificate, transcripts, blocked-account and insurance confirmations, and accommodation documents, all in your hand luggage.

Move in, get the landlord confirmation, complete your Anmeldung, finalise banking and health insurance, get a SIM, and enrol at your university.

Yes, bring some euros for your first days, plus a forex card, since your first blocked-account release can take a couple of weeks.

Warm, layered clothing, a power adapter, essential medicines with prescriptions, and your full document folder.

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