30 June 2026 · 5 min read
The first German month needs a different budget
Plan temporary housing, a rental deposit, household setup, transport, and timing before the first payslip.
An ordinary cost-of-living budget answers what life may cost after settling. Arrival has a different shape: several large payments cluster before routine income and reimbursements catch up.
Put expenses on a timeline
A total is helpful, but dates prevent a cash-flow surprise. Mark likely payment days for flights, temporary accommodation, first rent, deposit instalment, local transport, furniture, internet setup, and insurance. Then mark the first payroll date and any employer reimbursement date.
Do not assume the first salary arrives exactly one month after your start date. Ask payroll which cut-off applies to new starters.
Temporary housing can overlap with rent
A permanent tenancy may begin before a short-term booking ends, especially when key collection or moving dates are awkward. Budget a small overlap rather than assuming a perfect handover. Check whether temporary accommodation includes laundry, cooking facilities, local taxes, and cleaning fees.
Separate reusable items from administrative costs
Basic kitchen equipment, bedding, lamps, and a desk remain useful, while hotel nights and agency fees do not. Both affect arrival cash, but separating them helps if you must reduce the plan. A furnished apartment lowers setup purchases but may carry higher rent.
Keep employer support outside until confirmed
A relocation allowance may be taxable, capped, reimbursed only against receipts, or paid after probation. Ask:
- which expense categories qualify;
- whether the amount is gross or net;
- what invoice details are required;
- who books travel or temporary accommodation;
- when reimbursement is processed;
- whether unused allowance is paid.
Retain contracts and receipts, but do not send identity or banking documents to anyone whose role you have not verified.
Hold three buffers
One buffer covers underestimated setup purchases. A second covers an annual utility adjustment or delayed reimbursement. The third is the ordinary emergency reserve you would want after the boxes are unpacked.
If the move consumes all three, the offer may still be workable—but the employer contribution, housing target, or moving date deserves another conversation before commitment.