How to Find Accommodation in Germany Before Arrival (2026)

Finding accommodation in Germany before you arrive is one of the biggest challenges for foreigners. Demand is high, scams exist, and many landlords prefer tenants who are already in Germany.

The good news?
With the right strategy, you can secure temporary or even long-term housing before landing.

This 2026 guide explains where to search, what to avoid, and how to increase your chances.

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Can You Rent an Apartment in Germany Before Arrival?

✅ Yes, but it depends on the type of accommodation.

Most newcomers start with:

• Temporary housing (first 1–3 months)

• Student residences

• Shared apartments (WG)

Then move to long-term housing after arrival.

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Best Types of Accommodation for Newcomers

🏠 1. Temporary Accommodation (Recommended)

Best option for:

• Students

• Job seekers

• New arrivals

Examples:

• Furnished apartments

• Short-term rentals

• Guesthouses

✅ Accepted for visa applications
✅ No long-term contract needed

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🧑‍🤝‍🧑 2. Shared Apartments (WG)

Very common in Germany.

You rent:

• A private room

• Shared kitchen & bathroom

✅ Cheaper
❌ Competitive
❌ Often requires online interviews

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🏢 3. Student Dormitories

Only for students.

• Affordable

• Managed by Studentenwerk

• Limited availability

Apply as early as possible.

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Best Websites to Find Accommodation in Germany (2026)

🔹 For Temporary Housing

• Wunderflats

• HousingAnywhere

• Spotahome

• Airbnb (short-term only)

👉 These are visa-friendly platforms.

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🔹 For Shared Apartments (WG)

• WG-Gesucht

• Student Facebook groups

• University housing boards

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🔹 For Long-Term Apartments

• Immobilienscout24

• Immowelt

• eBay Kleinanzeigen

⚠️ Long-term rentals usually require:

• SCHUFA (credit record)

• German bank account

• Proof of income

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Documents You’ll Usually Need

Even before arrival, prepare:

• Passport

• Visa or visa appointment proof

• Admission letter or job seeker status

• Proof of funds (blocked account)

• Short personal introduction (very important!)

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How to Avoid Accommodation Scams ❌

🚫 Never send money:

• Before seeing a contract

• If the price is “too good to be true”

• If the landlord refuses video calls

🚫 Avoid:

• Asking for payment via gift cards or crypto

• Landlords who say they are “outside Germany” and cannot show the apartment

✅ Always use trusted platforms

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How Much Does Accommodation Cost in Germany? (2026)

Approximate monthly prices:

• 🏙️ Big cities (Berlin, Munich):

  • €600 – €1,200

• 🏘️ Smaller cities:

  • €400 – €700

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 WG room:

  • €300 – €600

Prices vary by city and demand.

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Best Strategy (Highly Recommended)

👉 Book temporary accommodation for 1–3 months
👉 Register your address (Anmeldung)
👉 Open bank account
👉 Search for long-term housing locally

This is the safest and smartest approach.

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Final Tips for 2026 Applicants

✔️ Start searching early
✔️ Prepare a short intro about yourself
✔️ Be flexible with location
✔️ Expect rejections — it’s normal

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Conclusion

Finding accommodation in Germany before arrival is challenging but completely possible with the right tools. Temporary housing is your best starting point, followed by a long-term search after arrival.

➡️ Next, we’ll explain how to register your address (Anmeldung) in Germany.