🇩🇪Ready to start a new adventure across the Channel? If you’re planning a move to Berlin, 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 Berlin at a glance?
- Flag: 🇩🇪
- Population: 3.6 million
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average salary: Around €50,000/year
- Live EUR ←→ Dollar: Use dynamic currency converters for the latest exchange rates
- Destatis, 2024
- European Central Bank, 2024
- XE, 2024
Reviewed by World Population Review, last updated in July 2025; European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, last updated in July 2025; Berliner Morgenpost, last updated in January 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Move Your Belongings to Berlin?
The cost of moving to Berlin 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 relocated to Berlin in May 2025 with around 3 cubic meters of personal items. I opted for air freight, which cost me approximately €2,100 including customs. Everything arrived within a week, and the process was surprisingly smooth.” — Sophie L., relocated in May 2025
Many people moving to Germany choose to relocate to one of the five biggest cities in the country, including 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 Berlin?
A one-bedroom flat in Berlin averages €1168 per month, while groceries cost around €250–350 monthly. Utilities range from €300, and public transport is about €50–60. These reflect average living costs for a single occupant and are updated quarterly using local housing and consumer data.
| Category | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Rent (1 BED city centre) | ~€1,168 |
| Groceries (food only, excluding rent) | ~€250–350 |
| Utilities (basic 85 m² flat) | ~€300 |
| Public transport (monthly pass) | ~€50–60 |
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 Munich?
Renters in Berlin typically pay a security deposit equal to three months of cold rent (“Kaltmiete”), which does not include utilities. To secure a rental, you’ll need to provide key documents such as proof of income, a SCHUFA credit report, a copy of your ID or residence permit, and occasionally references from previous landlords.
If you’re looking to buy property in Berlin, budget for additional expenses like notary fees, property transfer tax (around 6% in Berlin), and land registry charges. These can amount to 10–15% of the property’s purchase price.
Popular residential areas for newcomers in Berlin include:
- Prenzlauer Berg – Family-friendly, full of cafés and green spaces
- Kreuzberg – Diverse, vibrant, with a strong creative and international community
- Friedrichshain – Youthful, energetic, close to nightlife and tech startups
- Charlottenburg – Elegant and quiet, ideal for professionals and families
Each neighborhood offers a unique vibe, with good public transport connections and access to Berlin’s cultural and social life.
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:
“Moving from Sydney to Munich, I made sure to submit all the required customs paperwork in advance. Thanks to the Transfer of Residence exemption, my household goods were cleared quickly and without extra charges, which made the whole process much less stressful.” — Emily S.
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 France and Portugal with ReloAdvisor.
