Your first week: what to do in the first seven days

The first week is the busiest, and several tasks depend on each other. The order matters.

Days 1–2: register at the university

Do this first, because almost everything that follows asks for an enrolment confirmation letter.

Day 2: get a SIM card

Cheap and quick. You need a local number to open a bank account.

Days 3–4: open a bank account

Typically requires your passport, the enrolment letter, a residential address and a local phone number. That is why it comes third, not first.

Days 4–5: register your residence

Anmeldung in Germany, BRP collection in the UK. There is a deadline, and being late carries a fine.

Days 5–7: insurance and student card

Finalise health insurance and collect your student card — a lot of transport and software discounts hang off it.