Finding a permanent flat from abroad is very difficult because you cannot attend viewings and do not yet have German documents. A good way to start is a furnished apartment for two to six months through a reputable platform.

The key requirement: being able to register

When choosing temporary housing, what matters most is that the landlord will issue the confirmation of move-in (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung). Without it you cannot register your address, and registration is needed for your tax ID, many banking services and your residence permit.

Comparing the platforms

Wunderflats specialises in apartments in Germany and shows whether registration is possible. Homelike focuses on corporate clients and relocations. HousingAnywhere offers many rooms and studios for young people and interns and holds the first payment until after you move in.

Inclusive rent and house rules

Temporary housing is usually let at an all-inclusive rent (Pauschalmiete): electricity, Wi-Fi, heating, water and the built-in appliances are included. This means you do not have to sign separate contracts with utility providers.

Searching for a permanent home from there

Three to four months in temporary housing take the pressure off the first period: you open a bank account, receive your first payslips, order your SCHUFA report and attend viewings of permanent flats in person.

What to check

  • Get written confirmation that registration is possible before paying for the booking.
  • Read the platform's cancellation terms and rules for returning the deposit.
  • Check whether there is a washing machine and a dedicated workspace.
  • Start actively searching for a permanent flat from your second week.

Example situation

An IT specialist books a studio in Frankfurt through Wunderflats for three months, registers on the fourth day after arriving and finds a long-term flat within two months without rushing.

Next step

Temporary apartments that allow registration are an ideal bridge to Germany; never book accommodation without a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.