Finding housing in Germany
Finding a place to live is one of the first concrete steps once your visa is granted. Here are the basics to understand the German housing market, the common types of housing, and the administrative steps that come with it.
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Request housing helpThe most common types of housing
Three options come up most often for newcomers.
Shared flat (WG — Wohngemeinschaft)
The most popular option among students and young professionals: you rent a room in a shared apartment with a common kitchen and bathroom. An affordable solution and a good way to meet people quickly.
Student residence (Studentenwohnheim)
Run by the Studentenwerk (the universities' student welfare organisation) or private residences. Reserved primarily for enrolled students. Spots are limited: it's best to join the waiting list as early as possible, often several months in advance.
Private apartment
Renting a studio or apartment on your own, directly from a landlord or through an agency. More independence, but higher rent and a tenant file (Schufa, payslips, guarantor) is often required — harder to provide right upon arrival.
Indicative budget by type of city
These are general reference points. The housing market varies significantly by city, neighbourhood, and time period: always check current listings before committing.
Major cities (Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg...)
Rents are generally higher and the market is tighter, especially for studios and private apartments. Shared flats or student residences are often the most accessible options to start with.
Mid-sized cities and less competitive regions
Rents are generally more affordable, with more availability, especially for private apartments. The market still needs to be checked city by city: some mid-sized university towns are also in high demand.
Indicative estimates only, for information purposes. They do not replace your own search on rental platforms at the time of your arrival.
Practical steps to know about
A few German administrative steps to plan for.
The Anmeldung (address registration)
In Germany, anyone who moves into a new home must register their address with the local registration office (Bürgeramt / Einwohnermeldeamt), generally within two weeks of moving in. This registration is required to open a bank account, get a phone contract, or finalise certain visa/residence permit steps.
The security deposit (Kaution)
Most landlords require a security deposit, generally equivalent to 1 to 3 months' rent excluding utilities, due before moving in and refunded at the end of the lease (minus any damages). Plan for this amount in your move-in budget.
Tenant file
Depending on the type of housing, you may be asked for: an ID document, proof of income or scholarship, sometimes a credit history report (Schufa) — often impossible to provide right upon arrival, which is why starting with a shared flat or student residence can help.
Start early
The housing search can take time, especially in major university cities. It's recommended to start the process (student residence applications, WG search) as soon as your visa or admission is confirmed, not upon arrival.
Questions about settling in Germany?
We can guide you as part of your journey with Campus Allemagne.