Settling in Germany

• Use networking events and try to meet new people – at work or outside of work. You can also get to know people in Germany through sports clubs or hobbies.
• Attend language courses: It is helpful to learn German in order to better cope with everyday life. Your university will certainly offer language courses.
• Use German: Even if your German is not good, use it. This is the only way to improve.
• Phone calls: In Germany, you can make cheap calls with a SIM card. You can either sign a contract or buy a prepaid card.
• Transport: Germany has a dense transport network. You can travel throughout the country by bicycle, bus or train.
• Internet and post: Whether in a hall of residence, shared flat, university, library or internet café, there are many ways to access the internet. Letters and parcels are sent via Deutsche Post.
• Doctors and pharmacies: Germany has a dense network of well-trained doctors. Whether you have toothache or other complaints, there are trained specialists in every field who you can visit at their practice. Feel free to use our doctor search to find a suitable doctor's practice.
• Hospital: In Germany, you go to hospital in an emergency or if specialist treatment is not sufficient. In an emergency, dial 112.
• Medication: You can obtain medication from a pharmacy. Some medication is prescribed by a doctor, while other medication can be purchased over the counter at a pharmacy.

We hope that this guide will help you settle in quickly and easily in Germany. DAK-Gesundheit wishes you a successful start and a wonderful time in Germany!