Before your Arrival

If you plan to join us at MPSD in Hamburg, there are many things to know and handle in advance. Both the legal and practical aspects of relocating to Hamburg require careful planning. Please review the list below to learn more.

Visa and Work Permits

Depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa or work permit.

This applies only to non-EU citizens.
Average visa application processing time: 6 months.
More information from Euraxess: Euraxess Visa Information
For assistance, talk to your group assistant.

Contract and HR Paperwork

Once you decide to join us, the HR Department will contact you and send all relevant contract documents.

Please return the Documents as early as possible so they can be processed in time.
For any questions, contact the HR Department.

Housing Search and Renting

Finding suitable housing is an essential part of preparing for your stay in Hamburg.

Start your housing search as early as possible.
The Hamburg housing market has limited availability and high demand.
You can get support from DESY Housing Services.
You can choose to rent your own apartment, shared housing, or a single room.
If you need additional help, please speak with your group assistant.

Health Insurance and Social Security

Germany is a social welfare state and has structurured health and social security programs:

For employees the fees for healthcare, pension, care are all automatically dedacted from your salary and mandatory
For stipent holders and guest different regulations apply please talk to HR about these.

When you start working in Germany, you must register with a health insurance provider. For more information, please see Euraxess.

Personal Liability Insurance

This is one of the most important types of insurance. In Germany, you are legally responsible for any damage you cause. Personal liability insurance (in German: Haftpflichtversicherung) covers damage you or your family cause to others or their property. Landlords expect tenants to be properly insured. Personal liability insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended.

Family, Schooling, and Childcare

If you are relocating with your family, both the Max Planck Institute Administration and the DESY International Office can help you find suitable services, including:

Childcare for children under six
Schools for children six and older
After-school childcare

For more information, please see this Euraxess page.

Checklist

Ensure you have a valid visa and entry documents.
Arrange appropriate health insurance.
Secure an apartment for your arrival in Hamburg.
Start looking into school or childcare options for your children.