Ruhr-Uni-Bochum
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    • Übersicht über die Ruhr-Universität Bochum

    Copyright: RUB, Marquard

    Prior to your arrival in Germany

    We are happy that you have decided to become part of HGI and Ruhr University Bochum. 

    Please find a general guide for new international researchers at RUB here.

    We recommend registering with our RUB Welcome Center to be able to use their services. Register here.

    The Welcome Center provides important info regarding the preparation and implementation of your stay in Bochum, even prior to your arrival. Services include:

    • Advice for you and your family on formalities, including visa/residence permits, registration, health insurance, etc.
    • Supporting you in your direct dealings with public authorities (e.g. the Registration Office or the Foreigners' Office)
    • Information on finding accommodation
    • Events and excursions

    The city of Bochum has its own Welcome center. It acts as a central contact point for residence permits, qualification recognition, housing search, childcare, and language courses. The Bochum Welcome Center provides only advisory services, that is: all applications for residence permits must be submitted to the respective authorities.

    Preboarding

    • Online consultation available up to three months before arrival on topics such as residence permits, recognition of qualifications, housing search, childcare, and language courses.

    Onboarding

    HGI

    Copyright: Stadt Bochum

    HGI

    Copyright: Deutsches Bergbaumuseum/ Hauke Dressler

    Formalities

    Formalities:

    Upon your arrival in Bochum and Germany, you will need 

    Make sure to apply for a visa early, maybe even as soon as getting your confirmation for your place at CASA. To be able to enter Germany, you need a visa. A visa usually lets you stay in Germany for up to 3 months (Tourist/Schengen Visa, also known as Type C Visa), or up to 6 months (National Visa, also known as Type D Visa). However, to be able to stay longer in Germany and to work/study etc, you need a specific residence permit. that allows it.

    Before you start your employment, you must officially sign your contract. Your contract will enable you to get the right visa, find housing and open a bank account.

    Bochum is a great city to live in but the housing market is, similarly to other big cities, difficult. So, starting to look early is key.

    • Opening a bank account

    Opening a bank account can take a while. Remember to bring cash to start your adventure in Bochum.

    Which health insurance is possible and most suitable depends on the type of residence in Germany; detailed information on Health Insurance can be found here. We are not able to give any advice on health or any other kind of insurance since it depends on your individual situation and your personal requirements 

    • Registration with local authorities

    After finding housing, you will need to register with the Bürgerbüro in town.

    • Tax office (tax ID, tax declaration) - find detailed information on this page