Essential documents for your first weeks
The folder that saves you weeks: what to bring, what to translate and what to keep digital copies of.
Basic5 min readLast updated: 2026-07-14Available in EN · DE
This guide is being written and reviewed. The outline below shows what it will cover.
On this page
- Identity and civil status documents
- Qualifications and work references
- Which documents need certified translations
- How to organise digital copies safely
- What to request from your home country before leaving
Rules, fees and processing times differ between federal states and municipalities and can change. Always confirm details with the responsible office before you act.