Freie Universität Berlin

At border control, non-EU students may be asked to show certain documents. Commonly required are:

• University admission letter

• Student visa

• Proof of accommodation (hotel/hostel booking or rental contract)

After moving into accommodation, the address must be registered at the local Bürgeramt (citizens’ office). This process, called Anmeldung, is required by law and usually has to be completed within 14 days of moving in.

Documents required:

• Passport

• Rental contract

• Landlord confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)

After registration, a confirmation document (Meldebescheinigung) is issued. This certificate is essential for further formalities such as opening a bank account, obtaining health insurance, or applying for a residence permit.

Practical advice: Appointments at the Bürgeramt can be difficult to secure. When booking online via the Berlin Service Portal, it helps to search across all city districts. Appointment slots are often released late in the evening or early in the morning due to cancellations.

Additional information and tips from your mentors

• Registration deadline: Although the official deadline is 14 days, in practice many students need longer because of limited appointments. Authorities are aware of this. What is important is to book an appointment online as soon as possible. The booking confirmation can serve as proof that the process has been initiated.

• No registration without landlord confirmation: The Wohnungsgeberbestätigung must be signed by the landlord or housing provider. A rental contract alone is not sufficient.

• Shared flats and student housing: In shared apartments, only the main tenant or landlord can issue the confirmation form. In student dormitories, the housing administration usually provides it.

A German bank account is needed for rent payments, scholarships or salaries, and health insurance.
Options include:

• Online banks – quick registration, often with English-language service
• Traditional banks – personal assistance at local branches

Usually required:

• Passport
• Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate)
• Sometimes admission letter or visa

Blocked account (Sperrkonto):
Many non-EU students already have a blocked account for their visa. Nevertheless, it is useful to open a regular current account (Girokonto) for everyday use.
Note: Some banks offer student accounts (Studentenkonto) with no monthly fees.

Special note: Students from Iran may face restrictions due to international sanctions. It is recommended to first open an account with Sparkasse, and later (after receiving a residence permit) can switch to flexible online options such as N26 or Wise

Health insurance is compulsory from the first day of residence in Germany. It is required for enrollment at the university, for the residence permit, and for visa procedures.

Public (Statutory) Health Insurance

Most students choose statutory health insurance with providers such as TK, AOK, or Barmer. The monthly cost is about 120–130 EUR. Coverage includes doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and basic dental care. Family members such as children or a partner (under certain conditions) can often be co-insured free of charge.

Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance may be suitable for students over 30, in preparatory courses, or with specific needs. It can offer extra services, but usually requires paying costs upfront before reimbursement. Each family member must be insured separately.

Students from countries with social security agreements

Students from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey, or Tunisia may continue using their home health insurance in Germany. An entitlement form from the home insurance provider must be presented to a German statutory health insurance company in exchange for a certificate for university enrollment.
Further information: Freie Universität Berlin – Health Insurance for International Students

Students who are not citizens of an EU or EFTA country (Iceland, Norway, Switzerland) need a residence permit from the Berlin Immigration Office (LEA, Keplerstraße 2).

• Apply as early as possible, at least 8 weeks before the visa expires (or within 90 days if entering visa-free from countries such as the USA, Canada, or Japan).

• The process includes submitting documents, providing fingerprints, and paying a fee of about 100 EUR.

• Processing usually takes 10 to 16 weeks.

Support from the Freie Universität Pass-Service

Freie Universität Berlin offers support through the Pass-Service. Services include:

• Checking required documents

• Submitting the application online to the Immigration Office (an in-person appointment is still necessary)

This service is available to enrolled students and researchers of Freie Universität Berlin with a registered address in Berlin. Please consult the official fact sheet before contacting the service.
Further information: Freie Universität Berlin – Residence Permit