Find Your Home in Germany
Living & Accommodation Guidance
Finding suitable accommodation in Germany is one of the most critical steps in your journey as a Pakistani student. From navigating the competitive housing market to understanding rental agreements and avoiding scams, we guide you through every aspect of securing your home away from home.
Find Your Home in Germany
Living & Accommodation Guidance
Finding suitable accommodation in Germany is one of the most critical steps in your journey as a Pakistani student. From navigating the competitive housing market to understanding rental agreements and avoiding scams, we guide you through every aspect of securing your home away from home.
Financial Readiness: The 2025-2026 Blocked Account
The foundation of your journey is the Finanzierungsnachweis (Proof of Financial Resources). To secure your visa, you must prove you can support yourself without relying on the German state.
Monthly Requirement
€992
Annual Total (12 months)
€11,904
Monthly Payout
€992/month
Ilm Abroad Tip
We recommend opening your account (via providers like Expatrio or Fintiba) at least 3-4 weeks before your visa appointment at the German Embassy in Islamabad or Karachi to ensure your confirmation is ready.
Finding a Place to Live
The German housing market is highly competitive. We recommend starting your search 4–6 months before your departure.
Student Dorm (Studentenwohnheim)
€200 – €450
High (Easiest to make friends)
Shared Flat (WG - Wohngemeinschaft)
€300 – €600
Moderate (Live with locals/internationals)
Private Studio/Apartment
€500 – €1,100
Low (Best for privacy)
Hostel (Short-term stay)
€20 – €40/night
Temporary (While you search)
Dormitories
Managed by the Studierendenwerk, these are the most affordable but have waitlists ranging from 6 to 18 months. Apply as soon as you get your admission letter!
WGs (Shared Flats)
The most popular choice for students. You share a kitchen and bathroom but have your own private bedroom.
Warning
Never transfer a deposit or rent from Pakistan before signing a contract or viewing the room to avoid scams.
Maintaining Your Pakistani Lifestyle in Germany
Germany is home to over 5 million Muslims, ensuring a robust infrastructure for Halal living.
Halal Groceries
While big supermarkets like Lidl or Aldi offer basics, Pakistani students typically buy fresh Halal meat at Turkish, Arabic, or Afghan supermarkets.
Mosques
There are over 2,500 mosques across Germany, including the famous Cologne Central Mosque and Berlin's Şehitlik Mosque.
South Asian Flavors
You can find familiar brands like Shan, National, and Laziza spices in Desi stores or order them online via platforms like Dookan, Jamoona, or Sta Dukaan.
Dining Out
Major cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich have authentic Pakistani restaurants like Mann-o-Salwa, Ajwa, and Taste of Pakistan.
Administrative Essentials
Upon arrival, there are mandatory steps to ensure your legal stay:
Anmeldung (Registration)
You must register your address at the local Bürgeramt within 14 days of moving in.
Radio Tax (Rundfunkbeitrag)
Every household must pay €18.36 per month for public broadcasting. If you live in a shared flat (WG), this cost is split between all roommates.
Health Insurance
Mandatory for university enrollment. Public insurance (like TK or AOK) costs approximately €120 – €142 per month for students under 30.
Getting Around: The Deutschland-Semesterticket
Starting in 2025/2026, students benefit from a nationwide transport ticket.
Cost
€34.80/month
(Included in semester contribution)
Coverage
Unlimited travel on all regional trains, buses, and trams across the entire country of Germany.
Exclusion
High-speed trains like ICE, IC, or EC are not included.