Preparation tips

Your Adventure Starts Here!

Getting started can be challenging – we know!

An experience abroad requires good preparation. But don’t worry: you don’t have to take care of everything at once. We’ll guide you step by step and show you what to keep in mind before you leave – from financing and insurance to visas, accommodation and sustainable travel.

With our tips, you can keep track of everything and start your time abroad well prepared. After all, organizational issues shouldn’t stand in the way of your experience abroad!

And most importantly: have fun planning! Don’t underestimate the excitement and anticipation that come with it.

Before you leave – Your Preparation Checklist at a Glance

1. Practical Arrangements

4. Insurance

7. Safety and Emergencies

2. Finances

5. Accomodation

8. Everyday life at your destination

3. Residence and Entry requirements

6. Travel to your destination

9. Packing List

1. Practical Arrangements

Good preparation will help you stay organised and take care of important formalities in good time. Especially before an internship abroad, there are quite a few things to arrange – from important documents and deadlines to coordinating with your home university and internship host organisation, as well as practical questions about your travel.

Our tip: Start preparing as early as possible. This will leave you enough time to request any documents you may still need, make appointments or make changes at short notice.

Travel Documents

Are your travel documents valid for long enough? Check the entry requirements of your destination country and make sure that your passport or ID card meets the required validity period. Apply for a new document in good time if necessary.

Powers of Attorney and Representation

Arrange for someone to act on your behalf at home. Clarify who can take care of important matters while you are abroad and, if necessary, issue the appropriate powers of attorney.

Banking and Money

Also think about the practical aspects of everyday life:

Can you use your bank card in your destination country?
What fees apply to cash withdrawals or card payments?
Do you need a second payment method?
If necessary, inform your bank about your stay abroad.

Tip: Bring an additional payment method or a small emergency fund for the first few days.

Inform your Home University

Depending on your degree programme and the type of internship, the following points may be relevant:

Recognition of the internship
Awarding of ECTS credits
Leave of absence
Required certificates and confirmations
Requirements of your faculty or degree programme
Relevant contact person

Administrative Formalities

Check whether you need to deregister in Germany or register at your place of residence abroad, and take care of any required registrations with the relevant authorities or the German diplomatic mission abroad (e.g. ELEFAND). Also remember to arrange mail forwarding and take care of any other necessary formalities.

Mobile Phone

Check your mobile phone contract and roaming conditions and, if necessary, look into getting a local SIM or eSIM card.

Internship Contract

Enter into an official internship contract with your host organisation. The Learning Agreement for Traineeships, which is required for Erasmus+ funding, does not replace an internship contract and does not cover important employment-related matters such as notice periods, holiday entitlement or confidentiality obligations. A written internship agreement therefore provides clarity about your rights and responsibilities and gives you additional security during your internship.

Deadlines – Funding Opportunities

Find out about the deadlines for the Erasmus+ grant and other possible funding opportunities well in advance.

Your Accommodation in Germany

Remember to make arrangements for your room or apartment in Germany while you are abroad. What do you want to do: sublet it, terminate the lease, or continue paying rent? Discuss your options with your landlord, as subletting is not always permitted.

2. Finances

An internship abroad is a valuable experience – but it can also involve additional costs. In addition to Erasmus+ funding, there are other ways to finance travel, accommodation and living expenses.

Our tip: Get an early overview of your income and expenses to realistically assess how much funding you will need.

Scholarships are generally not guaranteed. It is still worth applying, but you should not rely on receiving funding. Therefore, plan for alternative sources of funding and structure your finances around several different sources whenever possible.

What costs should you plan for?

Before Departure

Visa and, if applicable, residence permit
Passport or other required documents
Insurance
Vaccinations and, if applicable, medical certificates
Travel to your internship destination
Flight, train or bus tickets
International driving licence, if required
Initial accommodation and/or security deposit
Necessary purchases for your stay

During your stay

Rent and utilities
Food and everyday expenses
Local public transport
Phone and internet
Leisure and personal expenses
Costs for visa, residence or registration formalities, if applicable

Funding Options

There are various ways to finance an internship abroad. In addition to Erasmus+ funding, other funding opportunities or sources of financial support may be available depending on your personal circumstances and destination country.

A. Scholarships
B. Government Financial Support
C. Mini-Jobs and Part-Time Jobs
D. Internship Remuneration and/or Benefits in Kind
E. Loans

A. Scholarships

Erasmus+ Internship Funding

With Erasmus+ funding, you receive a financial contribution towards the travel and living costs of your internship abroad. The amount depends, among other things, on your destination country, duration of stay and the applicable funding rates. The funding generally does not cover all costs. You should therefore also plan to use your own financial resources.

Erasmus + Traineeship

Lehramt.International

The DAAD Lehramt.International programme provides teaching students with scholarships for 1.5- to 6-month internships at schools abroad. The funding includes a monthly scholarship rate, a travel allowance and insurance coverage. Erasmus+ Programme Countries are excluded. Simultaneous funding through Erasmus+ or PROMOS is not permitted.

Lehramt.International

ASA Programme

The ASA Programme enables students and vocational trainees aged 21 to 30 to participate in three- or six-month projects in around 45 countries. The projects focus on development policy and cover areas such as environment, social affairs, design and natural sciences. In addition to a scholarship, the programme offers international practical experience, preparatory and follow-up seminars, and the opportunity to work in international teams.

ASA Programme

PROMOS

The programme is funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), but selection and funding decisions are made by your home university. Among other things, internships abroad of up to six months can be funded. The specific programme conditions – such as eligible destinations, duration and selection criteria – may vary from one university to another.

PROMOS

Carlo Schmid Programme

The DAAD Carlo Schmid Programme supports German students and graduates from all fields of study with 4- to 8-month internships at international organisations. Funding includes a monthly scholarship rate depending on the host country, a travel allowance and insurance coverage. Requirements include, among other things, an interest in international affairs and a suitable application for an advertised internship position.

Carlo Schmid Programme

Baden-Württemberg STIPENDIUM (Europe Line)

The Europe Line of the Baden-Württemberg STIPENDIUM supports students enrolled in degree programmes with a European focus for 2- to 11-month practical placements or internships at European administrative institutions. The scholarship amounts to approximately €1,200 per month. Applications are currently not possible, as the programme is currently being restructured and further developed.

Europe Line – Baden-Württemberg STIPENDIUM

HAW.International

Particularly relevant for students at universities of applied sciences. The programme supports self-organised internships as well as certain advertised internship opportunities. Funding is available for stays of two to six months and includes a monthly scholarship rate as well as, among other benefits, a travel allowance and insurance coverage.

HAW.International

RISE Worldwide

The DAAD RISE Worldwide programme supports bachelor’s students in natural sciences and engineering, computer science, medicine and pharmacy with 6-week to 3-month research internships at universities and research institutions worldwide. Funding includes a monthly scholarship, a travel allowance and insurance coverage.

RISE Worldwide

DAAD Short-Term Scholarships for Specific Internships

The DAAD supports self-organised internships at selected institutions abroad, such as German diplomatic missions and institutions involved in Germany’s foreign cultural and educational policy. Applications are open to students from their third semester onwards as well as master’s students. The internship must last at least 40 days, with funding available for a maximum of three months. Funding includes a monthly partial scholarship and a travel allowance. Simultaneous funding for the same stay through Erasmus+ or PROMOS is not possible.

DAAD Short-Term Scholarships for Internships Abroad

B. Government Financial Support

International BAföG

Under certain conditions, you can also apply for BAföG for an internship abroad. Depending on your eligibility, support may be available for living expenses, travel costs and health insurance. Even if you do not receive BAföG in Germany, you may still be eligible for International BAföG. The responsible office and eligibility requirements depend on your destination country and the type of stay.

International BAföG

Child Benefit (Kindergeld)

While studying, you may generally be entitled to child benefit (Kindergeld) until your 25th birthday. An internship may also qualify, provided the relevant requirements are met. For an internship, the Family Benefits Office requires proof of the type and duration of the internship. Additional rules apply to cross-border situations involving a stay abroad.

Child Benefit during an (International) Internship

Child Supplement (Kinderzuschlag)

Under certain conditions, Child Supplement (Kinderzuschlag) may continue to be paid during a temporary internship abroad. One requirement is that you remain entitled to child benefit (Kindergeld) and, for adult students, that the internship is related to their studies or vocational training. Internship remuneration may be taken into account when determining eligibility. Please clarify with the Family Benefits Office (Familienkasse) at an early stage whether you are eligible.

Child Supplement (Kinderzuschlag)

C. Mini-Jobs and Part-Time Jobs

In Germany

A part-time job before your internship abroad can help you build up savings for travel, accommodation and living expenses. In addition to a mini-job, options include a working student position, short-term employment or part-time job.

In 2026, the monthly earnings limit for mini-jobs is €603. As a general rule, working students are subject to the 20-hour-per-week rule. Under certain conditions, you may also work more hours during semester breaks or at certain times of day.

Tip: Find out about the applicable rules regarding working hours, taxes, social security and, where applicable, BAföG.

Abroad

A part-time job in your destination country can help cover the costs of your stay abroad. Whether and to what extent you can work alongside your internship depends, among other things, on working-time regulations, your residence status and the laws and regulations of the destination country.

Possible options:

Mini-job or part-time job in your destination country
Part-time work for your internship host organisation, if permitted
Remote part-time work for an employer in Germany, provided this is legally and tax-wise permissible
Freelance work, provided this is permitted in the destination country

Please note: Find out about the applicable legal requirements in your destination country before you leave. Tax and social security regulations may also apply.

D. Internship Remuneration and/or Benefits in Kind

Your internship host organisation may also cover part of the costs. When looking for an internship, therefore, check whether remuneration or other benefits are offered.

Possible benefits:

Internship remuneration
Contribution towards accommodation or rent
Free or subsidised accommodation
Meals or meal allowance
Contribution towards travel or public transport costs
Coverage of visa or administrative fees
Coverage of or contribution towards insurance costs
Company car or bicycle
Other benefits in kind, such as work equipment or mobile phone

Tip: Ask specifically about additional benefits. Even if an internship is unpaid or only modestly paid, benefits in kind can significantly reduce your financial burden.

E. Loans

BVA Education Loan (Bildungskredit)

The German government’s Education Loan (Bildungskredit) supports students in financing their studies. The temporary loan is offered at favourable terms and can be applied for online through the Federal Office of Administration (BVA). The loan is disbursed and repaid through KfW.

BVA Education Loan

KfW Student Loan

The KfW Student Loan offers students flexible financing for living expenses, with monthly payments of up to €650. The loan is not dependent on income, does not require collateral and can be combined with BAföG.

KfW Student Loan

Private Loans

A private loan from family or friends or strangers can also be an option for supplementing the financing of your internship abroad. Agree on the repayment terms, duration and, if applicable, interest in writing and document the arrangement in a simple contract.

Tips for Private Loans

Create your Personal Financial Plan

My Income

☐ Erasmus+ funding
☐ Internship remuneration
☐ BAföG / International BAföG
☐ Other scholarships or funding
☐ Personal savings
☐ Other financial support, if applicable

My Expenses

☐ Travel to and from the destination
☐ Accommodation and security deposit
☐ Insurance
☐ Visa and residence permit
☐ Food
☐ Local public transport
☐ Mobile phone and internet
☐ Leisure and personal expenses
☐ Emergency fund for unexpected costs

3. Residence and Entry requirements

Be well prepared for crossing the border – so you can start your internship abroad with peace of mind.

Whether you need a visa, residence permit or work permit for your internship abroad depends, among other things, on:

your destination country,
your nationality,
the duration of your stay, and
the type of internship.

Regulations can change at any time. Therefore, find out about the applicable requirements well in advance, preferably directly from the competent authorities in your destination country.

What do you need to clarify before departure?

Do you need a visa? Find out whether a visa is required for your nationality and the duration of your internship.
Do you need a residence permit? Depending on the length of your stay, a residence permit may be required in addition to or instead of a visa.
Are you allowed to complete an internship in your destination country? Visa-free entry does not automatically mean that you are allowed to undertake an internship in the destination country. Therefore, also check the applicable work and internship regulations.
Is your travel document valid? Check the validity of your passport or ID card in good time. For many countries outside the EU, you will need a valid passport.
Is registration required? Find out whether you need to register with the local authorities or register your place of residence after arrival.
Do you need to provide proof of sufficient funds? Certain visas or residence permits may require proof that you have sufficient financial means.
Are there any health requirements? Depending on the destination country, certain vaccinations, medical certificates or specific regulations concerning the import of medication may apply.

Particularly important: Your nationality

Entry and residence requirements are not determined solely by the fact that you are studying in Germany. Your nationality, in particular, may be a decisive factor.

If you do not hold German citizenship, different entry, residence and work requirements may apply to you. Having a German residence permit does not automatically mean that you can complete an internship in another country without fulfilling additional formalities.

Always check the requirements specifically for your nationality and destination country.

Where can you find reliable information?

The rules for entry, residence and internships vary from country to country. The German Federal Foreign Office recommends contacting the relevant diplomatic mission of your destination country in Germany. In particular, consult:

German Federal Foreign Office: The travel and safety information provides, among other things, information on entry requirements, health-related considerations and safety risks.
Embassy or consulate of your destination country: This is where you can obtain binding information on visas, residence permits and, where applicable, work permits.
Competent authorities in the destination country: Find out which authority is responsible for residence, registration or work permits.
Your internship host organisation: Also ask your host organisation whether they can support you with the necessary formalities or have previous experience with international interns.

UK Visa

Please note that, following Brexit, we can no longer assist with applications for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for stays in the UK. There are now private agencies, such as BUNAC and ESPA, that can apply for a CoS on your behalf for a fee and provide support with the visa application.

Please review these services carefully and find out about the costs of both the CoS and the visa in advance.

At present, research internships lasting less than six months and study periods of less than six months are exempt from the visa requirement.

Allow sufficient time

Make sure to find out about the applicable requirements well in advance. If you need a visa, the application process will always require additional time and effort. If needed, KOOR will be happy to provide a confirmation of your funding period and grant amount in German or English for your visa application.

4. Insurance Coverage

An Erasmus+ mobility grant does not automatically include insurance coverage. As an Erasmus+ participant, you are responsible for ensuring that you have adequate insurance coverage throughout your entire internship abroad.

For an Erasmus+ internship, you must check, in particular, your health, international health, accident and liability insurance and provide confirmation of your coverage by submitting an Insurance Declaration. For accident and liability insurance, it is particularly important to ensure that your coverage also applies to your activities at the workplace.

Health and International Health Insurance

Check whether your health insurance remains valid throughout your entire stay abroad and which benefits it covers. Additional international health insurance may be required, particularly if your regular health insurance does not provide sufficient coverage in your destination country. Make sure that your international health insurance covers the services you need during your stay. These may include, for example, outpatient and inpatient treatment, medication and, depending on the policy, medically necessary repatriation. Also check whether your insurance coverage applies for the entire duration of your stay and in your specific destination country.

Accident Insurance

You must have adequate accident insurance coverage for your Erasmus+ internship. In particular, the insurance must cover accidents at the workplace. Therefore, check whether the necessary coverage is provided by your internship host organisation, your home university or your own insurance policy.

Liability Insurance

You must also have adequate liability insurance coverage. In particular, it must cover damage you may cause while carrying out your activities at the workplace. Therefore, check whether your existing liability insurance is also valid abroad and for the duration of your internship.

Who covers your insurance?

Before starting your internship, clarify whether and which types of insurance are covered by your internship host organisation. If possible, ask them to confirm the existing insurance coverage in writing. Your home university or responsible student services organisation (Studierendenwerk) may also be able to provide information about any insurance coverage provided through the university. However, do not assume that your university’s insurance automatically covers all aspects of your internship abroad.

Insurance Declaration for your Erasmus+ Internship

As part of your Erasmus+ application, you must submit an Insurance Declaration. By signing it, you confirm that you have the required insurance coverage for the entire duration of your internship abroad. Therefore, carefully read the information on the required types of insurance and review your existing insurance policies. If you are unsure, contact your insurance provider or seek advice from an insurance adviser.

What do you need to do now?

☐ Check which types of insurance are covered by your internship host organisation
☐ Clarify your health insurance coverage in your destination country
☐ Check whether you need international health insurance and take it out if necessary
☐ Clarify accident insurance coverage for your internship activities at the workplace
☐ Clarify liability insurance coverage for damage caused at the workplace
☐ Check whether your insurance coverage is valid for the entire duration of your stay
☐ Carefully read the terms and conditions of your insurance policies
☐ If necessary, obtain written confirmation of your insurance coverage
☐ Complete and submit the Insurance Declaration for your Erasmus+ internship (as part of the registration for your funding application)

5. Accomodation

Start looking for accommodation as early as possible, as affordable housing is in short supply and often gets rented quickly in many cities. Explore different accommodation options.

Tip: When choosing your accommodation, don't just consider the location – above all, make sure it is easy to get to your internship host organisation:

How long will your daily commute take?
Is public transport readily available?
How much will your travel costs be?
Is the accommodation easily accessible early in the morning or late in the evening?
Do you feel comfortable and safe in the area?

Which type of accommodation is right for me?

Depending on your destination country, length of stay and personal circumstances, there are various options to consider:

Shared apartment (WG): A popular and often relatively affordable option. It also allows you to quickly meet other students and young people.
Student residence: Find out whether there are student residences or accommodation specifically for students and interns at your destination. Even if you are not studying at a university in the destination country, some residences offer rooms to international students and interns.
Subletting: Particularly suitable for a temporary internship. Students or working professionals may sublet their accommodation while they are abroad or on holiday.
Private room / host family: A good option if you would like to immerse yourself more in everyday life in your destination country while also improving your language skills.
Furnished apartments / co-living: Particularly convenient for shorter stays, although often more expensive.
Temporary accommodation: If you have not yet found permanent accommodation before leaving, a hostel, hotel or other short-term accommodation can be a good option for the first few days or weeks.

Where can I find an accommodation?

Use different sources whenever possible and don't rely on just one platform:

Ask your internship host organisation whether they can help arrange accommodation or know of housing options for interns.
Ask your home university or International Office whether they have contacts with former interns or partner institutions.
Check the websites of universities and student services organisations (Studierendenwerke) in your destination city.
Use accommodation and shared-apartment platforms as well as local housing platforms.
Look for social media groups for international students, Erasmus students or expats in your destination city.
Ask former Erasmus+ grant recipients about their experiences and recommendations.
Make use of your personal network: someone you know may already know someone living in your destination city.

Beware of Accommodation Scams

Be particularly careful when searching for accommodation online. Be sceptical if:

the accommodation is offered at an unusually low price,
the provider claims to be abroad and cannot arrange a viewing,
you are put under time pressure or asked to make an unusually large payment before signing the contract,
you are asked to transfer money before you have adequately checked the accommodation and rental agreement,
the photos or description seem implausible,
the provider requests unusual payment methods.

Our tip:

Arrange an in-person or virtual viewing.
Do not make any payments until you have adequately checked the accommodation and the contractual terms.
Have the full rental agreement provided to you before making any payment and check who the actual landlord or contractual partner is.
Save the advertisement, correspondence and all payment receipts.

What will your accommodation really cost?

Don't just compare the advertised monthly rent. Check what additional costs you may have to pay:

Rent
Utilities
Electricity and heating
Internet
Security deposit
Any agency or booking fees
Final cleaning
Costs for bed linen or furnishings
Any costs for using public transport

Tip: Before booking, ask for the total cost for the entire duration of your stay. This can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.

Checklist

Before booking accommodation or signing a rental agreement, make sure you clarify the following:

☐ Is the accommodation available for the entire duration of your stay?
☐ How much are the rent, additional costs and security deposit?
☐ What is included in the accommodation (e.g. furniture, Wi-Fi, washing machine)?
☐ How does the key handover work?
☐ What cancellation and termination conditions apply?
☐ Is it possible or required to register your place of residence?
☐ How long will it take to commute to your internship host organisation?
☐ Are there any specific house rules?

6. Travel to your destination

Go Green!

A key focus of the new Erasmus+ programme generation is “Green Erasmus” – for example, by promoting environmentally friendly and sustainable travel. KOOR – Erasmus Services BW has been supporting sustainable travel since 2020. But a sustainable Erasmus+ stay involves much more than simply choosing a greener way to travel to and from your destination. For more tips, providers and information on how to make your stay abroad as sustainable as possible, see the document “Your Sustainable Stay Abroad with Erasmus+”

What is Green Travel?

“Green Travel” or environmentally friendly travel refers to travel “where at least half of the journey (50% or more of the total distance) is made using low-emission means of transport, such as buses, trains, bicycles or carpooling.”

_{* (Erasmus+ Programme Guide 2026, p. 446, English version)}

What does NOT count as Green Travel? Air travel, car journeys with only one passenger, ships* and ferries*.

When does a journey qualify as Green Travel? At least 50% of the total distance must be travelled by bus, train, bicycle or carpooling* – in other words, at least the entire outbound or return journey must be made using these means of transport.

_{*A journey may qualify as Green Travel if a ship or ferry is combined with a low-emission means of transport, such as a train, for one part of the journey.}

Applying for additional funding for Green Travel

… during your initial registration in Mobility Online:

Indicate whether you will travel to your destination and/or return from it using green means of transportation.
Select your main means of transport.
Determine the actual distance between your home university and the location of your internship host organisation using the EU Distance Calculator.
Submit the “Declaration of Honour for Green Travel” after registration. By submitting the declaration, you commit to travelling to or from your destination using green travel before the start or after the end of your internship.

Benefits

If you travel to or from your destination using Green Travel, you will receive an increased travel allowance as well as additional travel days.

Important information

Keep your proof of travel: Keep all documents confirming your Green Travel. Random checks will be carried out as part of the final documents. If you cannot provide proof, the additional Green Travel funding (increased travel allowance and additional travel days) must be repaid.
No trips home: Tickets for trips home during your internship are not accepted as proof of Green Travel.
Report changes: If you did not use Green Travel for either your outbound or return journey, you must inform us. The necessary adjustment will be made when the second instalment is paid.

Destination too far for Green Travel?

Then flying may be the most practical option. When comparing prices, the following websites can be helpful:

Reimbursement of exceptional costs for expensive travel

These costs may be approved if funded participants can demonstrate that the travel allowance (for short-term mobility, stays in Partner Countries* and staff mobility only) does not cover at least 70% of the actual travel costs.

If exceptional costs for expensive travel are approved, they replace the standard travel allowance. The application must be submitted in writing to erasmus.koorspam prevention@h-ka.de six weeks before the start of the journey. Exceptional costs for expensive travel can cover up to 80% of the total travel costs.

The following supporting documents are required: proof of payment of the relevant costs in the form of invoices showing the name and address of the issuer, amount and currency, invoice date and travel itinerary.

^{*Stays in Regions 13 and 14 are excluded.}

7. Safety and Emergencies

A stay abroad should be a valuable and enjoyable experience. To help you feel safe and confident even in unfamiliar situations, find out about potential risks and important emergency contacts before you leave. Your safety and well-being are our highest priority!

Be well informed before you go

Current safety situation

Before you leave, find out about your destination country and the place where you will be staying. In particular, check:

Safety: Travel and security advisories, local risks and emergency numbers
Emergency situations: German embassy or responsible consulate
Health: Medical care, vaccinations and any medication you may need
Entry requirements: Regulations regarding bringing medication into the country
Culture: Local customs and cultural considerations
Everyday life: Important aspects relating to accommodation, your workplace and getting around

Keep your documents safe

Do not take important documents with you only in original form – make sure to also keep digital copies:

Passport / ID card
Visa or residence permit
Proof of insurance coverage
Erasmus+ documents
Vaccination certificate or relevant medical documents
Important travel and booking documents
Contact details of your home university and internship host organisation

Tip: Store digital copies securely and make sure you can access them even if your smartphone is lost or stolen. You can also leave an additional copy with a trusted person.

Emergency Plan

Save important contact details on your smartphone before you leave and keep them available offline or in written form as well:

Local emergency number
Police and emergency medical services
Medical emergency service, if applicable
German embassy or consulate
Contact person at your internship host organisation
Contact person at your home university
Contact details of KOOR – Erasmus Services BW
Bank card cancellation service
Emergency number of your insurance provider

Safety Aspects – Staying Safe During Your Erasmus+ Stay

In our “Safety Aspects” guide, we have compiled important information and tips to help you stay safe during your Erasmus+ stay.

German Federal Foreign Office

Information on travel warnings, security advisories and travel advice can be found on the German Federal Foreign Office website

ELEFAND Crisis Preparedness List

Regardless of the duration or destination of your stay, register with the ELEFAND Crisis Preparedness ListThis allows the responsible German diplomatic mission to quickly contact you in the event of a crisis or disaster. If you are not a German citizen, please check whether the embassy or consulate of your country of citizenship offers a similar crisis preparedness or registration service.

8. Everyday life at your destination

A new country, a new city and a new work routine – your first few days abroad can be exciting, but also unfamiliar. With a little preparation, settling in will be much easier. Before you leave, think about what you will need in your everyday life and which things you can best arrange from home.

Practical Essentials for Your Stay Abroad

International Student Identity Card (ISIC)

With the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), you can prove your student status internationally and benefit from student discounts on a wide range of offers and services. Check in advance whether the card is worthwhile for your destination country and the activities you are planning.

ESNcard

The ESNcard is offered by the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) and is aimed particularly at Erasmus+ participants. It gives you access to discounts from various partner organisations in Europe and beyond, for example on travel, accommodation, events and leisure activities. Available offers vary by country and may change over time.

Driving Licence and International Driving Permit

If you plan to drive during your stay abroad, find out about the driving licence requirements in your destination country before you leave. Within the EU, a valid German or EU driving licence is generally recognised. In many countries outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may also be required or recommended. An IDP is not a driving licence in its own right, but serves as an additional translation of your national driving licence and is only valid together with it. Also find out about the applicable rules for rental cars, insurance and the minimum age for drivers.

Practical for your first days: “Arrival Checklist”

☐ Test your journey to the internship host organisation
☐ Check public transport options and tickets
☐ Download important apps
☐ Arrange your SIM card / mobile phone service
☐ Check your bank card and payment options
☐ Plan your first shopping trip and identify important local services
☐ Secure important documents digitally
☐ Save the contact details of your local contact persons
☐ Register with the relevant local authority, and, if applicable, the responsible embassy or consulate
☐ If applicable, get an ISIC and/or ESNcard
☐ Check the driving licence requirements
☐ If applicable, apply for an International Driving Permit
☐ Take care of important administrative tasks after arrival
☐ Make your first contacts and explore leisure activities
☐ Stay open to new experiences

9. Packing List

A helpful and customisable packing list can be found at Packlisten.org (in German!)

Our tip: When travelling by plane, train or bus, keep the following items in your hand luggage:

Important documents (passport, visa, tickets, vaccination certificate, etc.)
Valuables (jewellery, cash, debit/credit cards, laptop, etc.)
A change of clothes
A basic set of travel-sized toiletries
Essential medication

This way, you’ll have the most important things with you in case your luggage gets lost.

KOOR – Erasmus Services BW

Telephone +49 (0)721 925-2521
Fax +49 (0)721 925-2520

Telephone Office Hours: Mon to Fri from 9 am to 11 am

erasmus.koor@h-ka.de

Hochschule Karlsruhe
Building F, Room 302 & 303
Moltkestraße 30
76133 Karlsruhe