Things to Know Before Moving to Germany
Germany, located in the heart of Europe, borders nine countries, including France, Austria, and Poland. Its diverse landscape ranges from the North Sea beaches to the Bavarian Alps. Major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt offer a blend of historical architecture and modern innovation.
Germany is a federal republic with 16 states, each with its own distinct culture and traditions. The country is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and strong economy. Germany is a global leader in various industries, including automotive, engineering, and technology.
Why Should You Consider Moving to Germany?
Healthcare System: Germany boasts one of the best healthcare systems globally, with both public and private options available. Health insurance is mandatory, ensuring comprehensive coverage for all residents.
Education: Germany’s education system is highly regarded, with free public schools and numerous prestigious universities. Many institutions offer courses in English, making it accessible for expats.
Work Opportunities: Germany’s robust economy provides excellent job opportunities, especially in fields like engineering, IT, and finance. The country also has favorable work-life balance policies, including generous vacation days and parental leave.
Quality of Life: Germany offers a high quality of life with efficient public transportation, low crime rates, and numerous cultural and recreational activities. Cities are known for their cleanliness and green spaces.
Family-Friendly: With a strong emphasis on family, Germany provides various benefits, such as child allowances and subsidized childcare. The education system is also child-friendly, with many extracurricular activities and support services.
General Tips
- Language: While many Germans speak English, learning German is beneficial for daily interactions and job prospects. Language courses are widely available and often subsidized.
- Housing: Finding accommodation can be competitive, especially in major cities. Consider using a relocation agent to navigate the housing market and understand local rental regulations.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living varies by region, with cities like Munich and Frankfurt being more expensive. However, salaries are generally high, and the cost of essentials remains reasonable.
- Cultural Integration: Germans value punctuality, efficiency, and order. Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to integrate smoothly into society.
- Travel: Germany’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring Europe. The country has an extensive and reliable public transportation network, including high-speed trains and international flights.
Moving with Pets
Germany is pet-friendly, but specific vaccinations and microchipping are required. Certain breeds may have restrictions, so check the regulations before bringing your pet.
Is moving to Germany a good idea?
Moving to Germany can be a good idea for many reasons:
- High quality of life and work-life balance
- Strong economy with job opportunities, especially for skilled workers
- Excellent public services and healthcare system
- Lower cost of living compared to some neighboring countries
- Rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes
However, consider challenges like:
- Language barrier if you don’t speak German
- Adapting to a new culture
- Competitive job market in some sectors
How much money do I need to move to Germany?
As of 2025, you should budget:
- Single person: At least €992 per month (excluding rent)
- Family of four: Around €3,389 per month (excluding rent)
For initial moving costs, consider having 3-6 months of living expenses saved. Rent varies significantly by location, with larger cities being more expensive.
Can I move to Germany without a job?
EU citizens can move to Germany without a job. Non-EU citizens typically need a job offer or meet specific criteria:
- Highly skilled workers may qualify for a job-seeker visa
- Students can apply for a study visa
- Self-employed individuals may be eligible for a freelance visa
Can a Dutch citizen live in Germany?
Yes, as an EU citizen, a Dutch person can freely live and work in Germany without requiring a visa or work permit.
Can I move to Germany if I don’t speak German?
While it’s possible to move to Germany without speaking German, knowing the language will significantly improve your experience:
- Many jobs require German language skills
- Daily life and integration are easier with language proficiency
- Some cities (like Berlin) have large international communities where English is widely spoken
- German language courses are widely available and often recommended for newcomers
Berlin
What salary do you need to live in Berlin?
- Single person: €2,605 per month (excluding rent)
- Family of four: €4,636 per month (excluding rent)
- Rent for a one-bedroom apartment: €700-€1,200 per month
- Total recommended salary: €3,500-€4,500 per month for a comfortable lifestyle
Is Berlin friendly to foreigners?
- Berlin ranks last (53rd) in the Local Friendliness Subcategory among German cities
- Expats find it difficult to make German friends
- Only 25% of expats find it easy to make friends, compared to 38% globally
- Berlin has a diverse expat community with many international meetups and events
How much money should I save to move to Berlin?
- Initial moving costs: 3-6 months of living expenses
- Single person: €7,815-€15,630 (excluding rent)
- Family of four: €13,908-€27,816 (excluding rent)
- Additional funds for apartment deposit (usually 2-3 months’ rent)
Is Berlin a good place to live in?
- High Quality of Life Index: 171.17 (Very High)
- Affordable compared to other major European cities
- Excellent public transportation and healthcare
- Rich cultural scene and nightlife
- Green spaces and eco-friendly environment
What are the cons of living in Berlin?
- Difficulty making local friends and integrating
- Language barrier if you don’t speak German
- Cold and dark winters
- Bureaucracy and paperwork can be challenging
- Competitive housing market with rising rent prices
