Essential Services for Newcomers in Germany: Personal Recommendations

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Essential Services for Newcomers in Germany: My Personal Recommendations

If you've recently arrived in Germany with an Opportunity Card or are planning to come soon, you'll need to set up essential services to make your transition smoother. Based on my personal experience, I've compiled a list of recommended services that will help you get settled quickly. By using my referral links, we both can benefit from special bonuses!

1. Expatrio - Your Blocked Account Solution

When preparing for your visa application, you'll need to deposit your financial proof into a Blocked Account. I personally used Expatrio's services, which made the process incredibly convenient. After arriving in Germany, Expatrio automatically transfers the monthly unfrozen amount to your designated account.

2. N26 - Modern Digital Banking

N26 is a leading digital bank in Germany that offers a fully mobile banking experience. Their services include a free basic account, easy international transfers, and investment options for stocks and funds.

My experience: N26 has been extremely convenient - you can open an account remotely via video verification, link it to Apple Pay and Google Pay, and even invest in stocks and funds. I use N26 as my salary account, and the standard plan meets all my basic needs. Transfers between friends are instant!

Join N26 today using my invitation link: https://n26.com/r/xianjinl1671

3. Telekom - Premium Mobile and Internet Service

Telekom is Germany's largest telecommunications provider, offering mobile plans, home internet, and TV services with excellent coverage throughout the country.

My experience: I use Telekom's network and the signal quality is outstanding. Their coverage extends to rural areas where other providers might have weak signals.

Use my referral link to sign up and we both can receive a cash bonus of up to €90: https://www.telekom-empfehlen.de/PcT4hPGk

4. Ostrom - Smart Green Energy Provider

Ostrom is an innovative green energy provider offering flexible monthly electricity contracts without long-term commitments. Their smart app allows you to track your energy usage in real-time.

My experience: The mobile app makes it extremely convenient to monitor electricity usage, and their green energy focus aligns with my environmental values.

You can save up to 35% on your electricity bill (approximately €500 per year on average) with Ostrom. Sign up with my referral code to receive a €50 bonus or €100 store credit: https://join.ostrom.de/?referralCode=XIANEJCXJC

5. Payback - Germany's Popular Loyalty Program

Payback is Germany's largest loyalty program, partnering with numerous retailers including supermarkets, drug stores, gas stations, and online shops. You collect points with every purchase that can be redeemed for cash or rewards.

My experience: This is a money-saving essential in Germany! The program includes many stores you'll visit regularly. Simply scan your Payback code after the cashier scans your items to collect points instantly. I earn about €200 cash back per year through this program.

Register using my link to receive 200 bonus points: https://www.payback.de/anmelden/freunde-werben?mgm-ref=c6d1ccf5-362e-4fc0-8adf-6677707797c6&excid=mgm&incid=mgm

6. American Express - Premium Credit Cards

American Express offers various credit cards in Germany with benefits ranging from travel insurance to rewards points and exclusive offers.

My experience: I got the rose gold metal card after finding employment in Germany. While the €20 monthly fee isn't cheap, the points can be exchanged for airline miles and the card itself is beautifully designed.

Apply through my referral link: https://americanexpress.com/de-de/referral/gold?ref=xIAOYQMATA&XL=MIANS

7. American Express Payback Card - No Annual Fee Option

This American Express card is co-branded with Payback, allowing you to collect additional points on your Payback account with every purchase.

My experience: The biggest advantage is that this card has no annual fee. You can earn extra points when shopping at Payback partner stores - 3 euros equals 1 point. Using my link, you can receive an additional 2000 Payback points (equivalent to €20).

Apply for the Amex Payback card using my link: https://americanexpress.com/de-de/referral/payback?ref=xIANJL6aY9&XL=MIMNS

Conclusion

Setting up these essential services will make your transition to life in Germany much smoother. Using referral links not only helps you get started quickly but also provides additional bonuses for both of us. Welcome to Germany, and I hope these recommendations help you settle in comfortably!