Foreigners often consider Germans very bureaucratic. And it is true that you need to fill out forms when you apply for something – whether at the local residents' registration office or the bank.

When you do this, you usually have to provide the same information, including your first and last name, your gender, your date and place of birth, your nationality and your address. You will often be asked about your academic or professional qualifications too.

At any public agency, you will be asked to show identification. All Germans aged 16 and over must have official identification. Foreigners need a current passport. Generally, however, you do not have to have it with you all the time.