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Step 9: Bureaucratic Essentials #

Once you’ve registered your address and applied for your residence permit, it’s time to secure two essential numbers for living and working in Germany: your Tax ID and your Social Security Number.

1. Get Your Tax ID (Steuer-ID) – Your Financial Identity in Germany #
This is a must-have for: #
  • Getting paid (every employer will ask for it)
  • Filing taxes or opening some bank accounts
  • Applying for certain health insurances
How to Get It: #
  • Automatically sent to your registered address after Anmeldung
  • Usually arrives in 2 to 6 weeks via post
  • In a hurry? Visit your local Finanzamt (Tax Office) and request it manually

Lost it? You can request a duplicate here (official site).

What It Looks Like: #

It’s a letter from the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern. Your Steuer-ID is an 11-digit number you’ll use throughout your time in Germany.
 

2. Get Your Social Security Number (Sozialversicherungsnummer) #

This is your German pension and employment identity. You need it for:

  • Starting a job
  • Contributing to retirement and health systems
  • Registering with public health insurance
How to Get It: #
If You Have Public Health Insurance (e.g., TK, AOK): #
  • No need to apply!
  • Your insurer will automatically request your Sozialversicherungsnummer
  • It arrives by post within 1 to 6 weeks
If You Have Private Health Insurance: #

You must apply yourself through Deutsche Rentenversicherung (DRV)

How to apply: #
  • Visit your nearest DRV office in person
  • Bring:
    • Passport
    • Anmeldung certificate (registration confirmation)
  • The number is often issued immediately
  • Alternatively: Request it by email – but it may take longer.
Not Sure If You Already Have One? #

Check:

  • Old payslips
  • Annual social security statements
  • Letters from Deutsche Rentenversicherung (DRV)

Still can’t find it? Contact:

Pro Tip: #

Keep both your Steuer-ID and Sozialversicherungsnummer in a safe, easy-to-access place. You’ll need them often — for jobs, banking, healthcare, and more!

 

Updated on May 28, 2025

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