First Steps for Internationals
Our Max Planck Institute is very international and we love it that way! But moving from another country to Düsseldorf isn’t always easy. These links, explanations and documents will help you get started. Reach out to Hannah Titchener for more specific information.
Housing
Before you start: The housing market in Düsseldorf is in high demand and unfortunately we do not have our own guesthouse. Please consider securing an apartment before you arrive in Düsseldorf. Otherwise your first weeks and months here will be characterized by repeated moves and searches at a time when you would rather be focussing on your research.
Where to start looking
We have prepared a list of recommended housing companies and landlords who we often cooperate with. Our staff regularly use these options.
Passing apartments from existing colleagues to future colleagues
In addition to the options below, we also facilitate apartments being passed on within the institue. This means: when a researcher moves away and their apartment becomes available, we'll let newcomers know so you have the first chance to pick up their rental contract and maybe even purchase their furniture secondhand. This is often the cheapest and most convenient option, but it's not always possible.
Visa
A visa for all non-EU citizens
We generally recommend that all non-EU citizens coming to MPI SusMat for more than 90 days apply for a visa in their current country of residence. The visa process can take several months, so please start preparing as soon as you are certain you’ll be coming to MPI SusMat.
Important links
German embassies and consulates worldwide
Hosting agreement: to fill out
Health insurance
Who needs health insurance?
Health insurance is an important topic in Germany and it’s a prerequisite for every type of visa. But even if you don’t need a visa, everyone who lives in Germany must have some kind of health insurance. Browse the options below to find out what health insurance policy suits your situation best.
List of public health insurance providers
TK - an example of a public health insurance provider
Private insurance for researchers
Learning German
Here are your options for learning German and some useful links.