Berlin: A Newcomer's Guide

Berlin is Germany's largest and most international city — known for its diversity, its startup scene, and, compared to Munich or Frankfurt, a still relatively moderate (if noticeably rising) rental market.

Citizens' offices & authorities

Address registration happens at one of the many Bürgerämter spread across the city's twelve districts. Appointments fill up fast — book online as early as you can. Residence permits are handled by the Berlin State Office for Immigration (Landesamt für Einwanderung, LEA).

Public transport

The BVG network (U-Bahn, buses, trams) together with the S-Bahn covers the city densely. A monthly or annual pass is usually worthwhile for students and commuters.

Neighbourhoods with a Persian community

Persian-speaking shops, restaurants and associations are spread across several districts, including around Charlottenburg, Schöneberg and Neukölln — many of them can be filtered by category and district directly on Yabino.

Job market

Berlin is a hub for startups, tech, the creative industries, and — as the capital — research and public administration. English-language workplaces are more common here than in many other German cities.

Practical tip

Berlin is divided into districts (Bezirke), which are further divided into neighbourhoods — if you move within the city, the Bürgeramt of your new district is always the one responsible for your Ummeldung.