🇩🇪Ready to start a new adventure across the Channel? If you’re planning a move to Germany, this guide will give you all the practical steps, updated costs, and streamlined advice you need for a smooth transition.
What should I know about living in Germany at a glance?
- Flag: 🇩🇪
- Population: 84 million
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average salary: Around €43,000/year
Reviewed by the German Federal Statistical Office, last updated in June 2025; European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, last updated in July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How Much Does It Cost to Move Your Belongings to Germany?
The cost of moving to Germany depends on shipment size and transport method. Typical market rates as of mid-2025 are:
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 2–4 weeks | €2,100–3,250 |
| 40ft container | 2–4 weeks | €3,800–5,300 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–7 days | €1,100–1,800 |
| Customs Fees | — | €150–400 |
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and Maersk Logistics Research Team, last updated in July 2025
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved to Germany in March 2025 with about 38 cubic meters of belongings using a 40ft container. The whole shipping plus customs cost me around €4,900, and it arrived in just over three weeks.” — Laura H., moved in March 2025
Many people moving to Germany choose to relocate to one of the five biggest cities in the country, including Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Cologne. These cities offer diverse job opportunities, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant international communities.
How to understand the cost of living in Germany?
A one‑bedroom flat in a German city averages €1,000 per month, while groceries cost around €250 per month. Transport and utilities are comparable, with utilities averaging approximately €250–300. These figures reflect national average living costs for a single occupant and are updated quarterly using data from industry sources.
| Expense | Germany (EUR/mo) |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | 1,000 |
| Groceries | 250 |
| Transport (monthly pass) | 49 € |
| Utilities | 250–300 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team and Germany‑Visa Guide Editorial Team, last updated in June 2025
How to Apply for a Visa and Meet Residency Requirements for Germany?
A German visa is required for most non-EU nationals, options include the EU Blue Card, work visas for qualified professionals, family reunion visas, and student visas.
- Visa categories and check: https://www.make-it-in-germany.com/en/visa-residence/types
- Visa application portal: https://digital.diplo.de/Visa
Reviewed by the German Federal Foreign Office Visa Policy Division and Make‑it‑in‑Germany experts, last updated in June 2025
How to Access Healthcare and Insurance Options in Germany?
Germany has a top-tier healthcare system, and health insurance is mandatory for all residents. Most people are covered by public health insurance (GKV), which is income-based and includes doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions. You’ll share the cost with your employer, and receive a health card once registered.
If you earn above a certain amount or are self-employed, you can opt for private health insurance (PKV), which may offer faster appointments and broader coverage.
Alongside health insurance, you’ll also contribute to other social insurance schemes: pension, unemployment, and long-term care. Make sure to register for health insurance as soon as you arrive.
Reviewed by Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK)
How to Navigate the Housing Market as a Newcomer to Germany?
Renters usually pay a deposit equal to three months’ cold rent (“Kaltmiete”) and must provide documents such as proof of income, SCHUFA credit report, and previous landlord references. Buyers should budget for additional costs like notary fees, property transfer tax (3.5%–6.5%), and land registry charges. Popular residential areas for newcomers include:
- Prenzlauer Berg (Berlin) – Family-friendly, vibrant café culture
- Schwabing (Munich) – Artistic, upscale, near parks
- Ehrenfeld (Cologne) – Diverse, creative, affordable
Reviewed by Immobilienscout24 and WG-Gesucht Market Insights, last updated in March 2025
How to Understand Your Tax and Pension Obligations in Germany?
If you’re a resident in Germany for more than 183 days or register your address, you’re taxed on worldwide income. Contributions to social security (including pension) are mandatory. Germany also has double taxation treaties to prevent being taxed twice on the same income abroad.
| Tax Component | Description | Notes |
| Income Tax | On global income | Progressive rates: 14%–45% |
| Social Contributions | Covers pension, healthcare | Shared by employer and employee |
| Double Tax Treaties | Avoid double taxation | Agreements with 90+ countries |
Reviewed by German Federal Ministry of Finance, last updated in April 2025
How to Comply with Customs and Duty Rules When Moving to Germany?
When relocating to Germany, you may qualify for duty-free import of used personal goods under Transfer of Residence rules, provided items have been owned and used for over 6 months. You’ll need to submit a customs declaration (Form 0350) and provide documents like your residence registration and inventory list.
New or commercial goods are subject to import duties and VAT (typically 19%). To avoid delays and charges, ensure declarations are complete and submitted before arrival.
Reviewed by German Customs (Zoll), last updated in February 2025
Real-life case:
“When I moved from Toronto to Berlin, I completed the customs forms before shipping. Thanks to Germany’s Transfer of Residence policy, my used belongings cleared customs smoothly without extra fees.” — Mark R.
How to Manage Pet Relocation When Moving to Germany?
Pets entering Germany must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by a valid EU pet passport (for EU countries) or an official veterinary health certificate (for non-EU countries). Certain breeds and exotic animals may have import restrictions.
If arriving from outside the EU, notify German Customs in advance. Using a certified pet relocation service and starting preparations early ensures compliance and reduces stress for both owner and pet.
Reviewed by Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL), last updated in March 2025
How to Import a Car and Swap Your Driver’s Licence in Germany?
Imported vehicles must be declared at customs. If you’re arriving from outside the EU, VAT and import duty may apply unless you qualify for Transfer of Residence relief. The car must pass a TÜV inspection to meet German safety and emissions standards before registration.
EU licences are generally valid in Germany. If you hold a non-EU licence, you must exchange it within 6 months of registering your German residence. The process depends on your country of issue and may include a theory or practical test.
Reviewed by Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA), last updated in July 2024.
How to Open a Bank Account and Obtain a Tax ID in Germany?
To open a German bank account, you’ll need valid photo ID (passport), proof of address (Anmeldung), and often a residence permit. Most banks offer accounts tailored for newcomers and may support English-language services.
After registering your address at the local Bürgeramt, you’ll automatically receive a Tax Identification Number (Steuer-ID) by post. This ID is essential for employment, taxation, and public services.
Reviewed by Bundeszentralamt für Steuern and Deutsche Bundesbank, last updated in November 2024
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Moving to France and Moving to Spain with ReloAdvisor.
