Your first 90 days
The first weeks are mostly appointments. Do them in the right order and everything after gets easier.
Week 1–2: the essentials
- Register your address with the local authority. In Germany and Austria this has strict deadlines (two weeks and three days respectively). In the Netherlands you get your BSN number this way.
- Get a local SIM card. Many appointments need a local number.
- Open a bank account. Your salary must be paid into a local account. Online banks can be faster for newcomers.
Week 2–6: your status
- Residence permit: collect your card, validate your visa online (France), or book the immigration appointment the authority requires.
- Health insurance: make sure you are enrolled from your first day of work. In Germany and the Netherlands you choose a provider.
- Tax number: usually issued automatically after registration; give it to your employer.
- Social security number: needed for payroll and healthcare in several countries.
Month 2–3: settling in
- Language classes: sign up now, while motivation is high. Some countries offer subsidised integration courses.
- Find a GP or family doctor, and register with them where required.
- Driving: check how long your Indian licence or international permit is valid, and start lessons if you need a local licence.
- Join communities: professional groups, Indian associations, sports clubs. People who build a local network early settle faster.
Keep a folder
Keep digital and paper copies of every document: contract, permit, registration, insurance, payslips. You will need them again for renewals and permanent residence.
