words Al Woods
Germany is a popular destination for expats, and for good reason. It has a lot to offer, from a strong economy to a high quality of life. However, before you make the move, there are some things you should know. In this blog post, we will discuss seven things that every expat in Germany should know. Whether you are moving to Berlin or Munich, these tips will help make your transition smoother!
1. The Cost Of Living In Germany
One of the first things you will want to know about Germany is the cost of living. How much does it cost to live in Germany? While prices vary depending on where you are located, it’s important to have a general idea of how much money you will need to get by. Fortunately, the cost of living in Germany is relatively low compared to other countries in Europe and North America, especially when it comes to housing and transportation costs. On average, most expats can expect to pay around 1000-1500 Euros per month for their basic expenses, including rent and utilities.
2. German Language Classes And Resources
As an expat in Germany, knowing at least some German will be crucial for navigating daily life, from finding an apartment to getting around the city. Luckily, there are many resources available for learning German, including online classes and language schools in most major cities. Depending on your goals and budget, you can choose a class that best fits your needs, whether it is a group class at a local university or private lessons with a tutor.
3. You will need an expat health insurance
Health insurance is one of the most important things to consider when moving to Germany. Because healthcare is so affordable and widely available, it’s essential to have some form of coverage while living in Germany. If you are employed by a German company, they will typically provide health insurance for you, but if not, there are plenty of options available through private companies. Regardless of which route you choose, be sure that your policy covers all necessary medical expenses. Although this is what you need to know about health insurance in Germany make sure you ask your insurance provider about the details of your plan, including any copayments or deductibles. This way you can be sure that you are covered in the event of a medical emergency.
4. Start looking for a job before you move to Germany
If you are planning on working in Germany after moving there, it’s important to start looking for a job well before you arrive. Not many employers in Germany will hire an expat without having met them first, so it is essential that you already have your foot in the door before settling down. Fortunately, there are several resources available for finding jobs in Germany as an expat, such as online classified ads and newspapers. Additionally, you can check out local recruitment agencies or even go through recruiters based overseas if you have friends or family who live there.
5. Settling In The City
Moving to a new city can be challenging, but having a general idea of what to expect will make the transition much easier. If you are moving to Berlin or Munich, for example, you should familiarize yourself with the public transportation system and other things like renting an apartment and finding a job. Fortunately, many expats find that these cities are very welcoming and that it’s easy to settle in once you are there! For instance, Munich is home to numerous expat meetups and many local companies that focus on helping foreigners find jobs and housing.
6. Registering With The Local Residents Registration Office
Because registering with the local residents registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) is a legal requirement for anyone living in Germany, it’s important to take this step before you move so that you don’t run into any issues later on. In order to register yourself as an expat, you must either show up in person at your residents’ registration office or hire a German representative who can submit forms on your behalf. Keep in mind that if you fail to complete this step within one month of moving to Germany, there may be
7. Get familiar with the local customs and culture
There are some cultural differences between Germany and other European countries, so it is important to be aware of these differences so that you don’t make any embarrassing blunders. For instance, if you want to impress your German colleagues at work, it might not be a good idea to slap them on the back or give them a firm handshake during your first meeting. So before making any big decisions like moving there, learn about their customs and culture by doing some research online!
In conclusion, there are many important things for expats to remember when moving to Germany. By following these helpful tips, you can rest assured that you will be able to settle in quickly and start enjoying your new life abroad!
