New to Hamburg / International Doctorate
Welcome to the University of Hamburg & Hamburg
Welcome to Hamburg! Whether you are coming from Germany or abroad, the University of Hamburg offers a wide range of support to make your start as smooth and pleasant as possible. An attractive academic environment, a lively city, and a diverse network await you. To help you find your way around quickly, we have put together a range of offers, information, and orientation aids to make your start in Hamburg easier.
The University of Hamburg's Onboarding Program
The first step for international doctoral candidates is the onboarding program, which was developed specifically for new students, researchers, and staff . Here you will find all the important information you need, as well as digital and personal orientation aids to help you quickly find your way around Hamburg and the university. The program includes webinars, events, and individual consultations on visas and residence permits, legal issues, social security, and tips for living and working in Hamburg.
The Hamburg Welcome Center (HWC) is your central point of contact for questions about visas, residence permits, or settlement permits. You can make an appointment by phone at +49 40 42854-5001 or visit in person at Adolphsplatz 1 (at the Chamber of Commerce). It is advisable to make an appointment in advance to avoid waiting times. The HWC will assist you with all questions relating to your stay and with the formalities involved in getting started in Hamburg.
Are you moving to Hamburg? Here you will find the current cost of living in the city, splitted by categories such as rent, food, free time etc. This will enable you to realistically assess your stay in Hamburg and adjust your budget accordingly.
Support for international doctoral candidates
Many programs offer support to help you settle in Hamburg. The onboarding program gives you the opportunity to clarify all relevant topics in webinars and at the Welcome Day. In addition, the University of Hamburg's buddy program pairs new international doctoral candidates with experienced colleagues who can help with questions about everyday life, social integration, or academic networking. “PIASTA – Intercultural Living and Studying” is also offered by the International Office at the University of Hamburg. PIASTA tutors welcome new students during Welcome Week and organize around 100 events during the semester to promote intercultural exchange and diversity on campus.
Welcome to the MIN Faculty & MINGZ
In the fall, the MIN Faculty and the MINGZ invite you to the Doctoral Welcome Night. This event offers the opportunity to meet other doctoral candidates, supervisors, and supporters. There are keynote speeches, practical information on funding opportunities, and the chance to chat over snacks and drinks.
If you have any questions, please contact our academic tutor Kai-Fu Wong and visit the Counseling for New Arrivals on topics such as doctoral studies and living in Hamburg.
Starting out in a new city and at a new university can be exciting and challenging. Take advantage of the wide range of services and networking opportunities available to make your stay and your doctoral studies as successful as possible. We wish you a successful start and an enriching time in Hamburg!