Finding Accommodation in Germany – Compact Guide for Indian Migrants

1. General Info

Finding housing in Germany – especially in big cities – is difficult and competitive. Be prepared for a time-consuming process

2. Long-Term Apartments

Top Platforms

  • •ImmoScout24: Best for full apartments
  • •WG-GESUCHT.de: Best for shared flats (rooms in flatshares)

Tips for Use

  • •Create a free account to save searches and get alerts
  • •Apply to multiple listings daily – competition is high
  • •Only apply for apartments that allow Anmeldung (address registration)
  • •Be detailed in your messages and move fast when a listing appears

Documents Often Required

  • •Payslips or employment contract
  • •Bank statements (if unemployed)
  • •SCHUFA credit report
  • •Liability insurance
  • •Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung (proof of no rent debts)
  • •Guarantor letter (if needed)

Viewing Tips

  • •Bring all documents and dress well
  • •Prepare a "bio page" about yourself
  • •Apply the same day after the viewing
  • •For flatshares: bring a small gift, be social

3. Moving into an Apartment

1

Sign the lease – Read carefully, possibly get help from a tenants' association

2

Do the handover – Fill out a handover protocol and get the landlord's Wohnungsgeberbestätigung for Anmeldung

3

Pay the deposit (usually 2x rent) – Only after signing the lease

4

Move in – Most apartments are unfurnished (often no kitchen or lights!)

4. Short-Term Furnished Apartments

Ideal for newcomers. Benefits:

  • •Easier to apply (less paperwork)
  • •Can be booked online from abroad
  • •Furnished – ready to move in
  • •Often allow Anmeldung
  • •Gives you time to learn the city before renting long-term

Example of Popular Platforms

  • •SMARTments
  • •Wunderflats
  • •Spotahome
  • •Habyt
  • •HousingAnywhere

⚠️ Note: Avoid Airbnb/hotels if you need Anmeldung