Moving to Germany

"Before moving to Germany, expats should ensure that they have the necessary documents for immigration, including a valid passport, work and residency permits, insurance certificates, and any relevant visas. It is important to research the cultural customs and laws of Germany, as they may be significantly different from the expat's home country. It is also important to be aware of the cost of living in the city or region where they are moving, and to make sure they have access to suitable accommodations and transportation options. Additionally, expats should make sure they understand the local language, as English is not as commonly spoken as in some other areas of the world," said one expat in Germany.

"Get an estimate for a move so you know what the expensive-but-easy way is. Just don't sign anything," said one expat who made the move to Frankfurt.

"We were staying with my father-in-law and his wife who had a 1 bedroom apartment, hmm 4 adults, one toddler and 2 cats. We called just about every listed apartment in this area (Mainz/Ingelhiem/Bad Kreuznach) and found this one as soon as possible. We were lucky, this is the first place we looked at, it's a little small but the location and the view are pretty good," explained one expat living in Stromberg, Germany.

"When looking for a place to live in Germany, it is important to do your research and select the location that best suits your needs. Start by considering the size and type of property you are looking for: house, apartment, townhouse or shared living space with roommates. Next, familiarize yourself with the local property markets and regions to determine the best area to live in. Once you have identified your preferred area, browse online listings to review available properties and visit open houses to find your ideal home. It is also important to understand the cultural influences, especially related to renters’ rights. Finally, contact a professional real estate agent to help you navigate the process, from making a purchase offer to finalizing your rental agreement," said one expat in Germany.

"We live in a 2 bedroom apartment. I think it's pretty small but not too small, I would like one more room for an office. Most of the expats that live here are not from Europe or the states and I've been told it's normal," replied a member in Stromberg.

"Typical expat homes and apartments in Germany are modern and comfortable, often with modern and updated amenities such as stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors and balconies. Furniture is typically simple and functional, and many places come equipped with washing machines and dryers. Many homes have an open plan kitchen and living area and perhaps a study or work corner. Homes come in various forms such as individual houses, townhouses, contemporary apartments or loft-style living," commented one expat who made the move to Germany.

"Housing costs are the same in the cities. In the smaller towns you can find places a lot cheaper than at home. Now a 2 bedroom apartment in CO is between $800 to 900 a month. A house in CO with 6 bedrooms would cost around $2400. However what you save on rent or house payments you spend in utilities and water!!!!!! here," commented one expat who made the move to Hillerse.

"The average cost of housing in Germany is generally considered to be relatively high. Prices for rent and purchase tend to depend on the specific location, with larger cities and urban areas typically being more expensive than rural areas. Although rents have been rising in recent years, Germany remains an attractive place for property owners due to the rent control laws. In general, rental prices tend to be higher than in many other countries in Europe," remarked one expat in Germany.

"I purchased an apartment over 20 years ago. It is not much different that the process involved in purchasing in the U.S," replied a member in Friedrichsdorf.

"It all depends on your individual needs and budget, as both buying and renting a home in Germany have pros and cons for different situations. If you plan on staying in Germany for an extended period of time, have the means to purchase a home, and want to build equity, then buying a home may be the best route for you. On the other hand, if you have more temporary plans, need more mobility and flexibility, and have a limited budget, renting may be the best option. Ultimately, the decision is yours, but it is important to carefully consider all the factors before making a decision," commented one expat who made the move to Germany.

"Packing for your move to Germany should depend on where you will be living and the time of year you are moving. Be sure to bring along some clothes and shoes that are suitable for the winter season if you are moving during the colder months. It's also wise to include some basic toiletries and everyday items such as laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, and paper goods. Make sure to include documentation like passports, visas and receipts, as well as any necessary equipment, appliances, and furnishings for your new home. When appropriate, bring electronic devices that may be compatible in Germany -- such as phones, computer cables, adapters, and converters. Finally, don't forget some of your favorite items and things that make your home feel like home," said one expat in Germany.

"Don't bring the bookcase. It will be the most expensive item. Store it if you have to. With what you have left, try to avoid a move. Could you take it all with you as luggage? Could you ship the books?," said one expat who made the move to Frankfurt.

"Try to be aware of local customs and courtesies to avoid making a cultural faux pas in Germany. Respect, politeness and courtesy are highly valued in German culture. Avoid making any disparaging remarks about the German language, culture or people. Unlike some other countries, it is considered impolite to dress casually when attending social events and it is also frowned upon to be late for appointments. Be aware that it can be considered rude to point at people or objects with the index finger, and in general public displays of affection are not encouraged," explained one expat living in Germany.

"Yes, but it is really a language mistake. My wife was 7mos pregnant and we went to a Spa region to find a hotel to relax and unwind for a couple of days. I went in to ask about availability and told the hotel clerk I wanted my wife to be 'Verdorben'. I thought I was saying that I wanted to spoil her with a luxurous experience, but apparently it literally means to spoil (ie. go rotten) and in the case of people it means to have them move into less respectable professions (ie. corrupt). The clerk was a little surprised especially after my wife came in to check on me. We then had a good laugh once she cleared up that I was still practicing new uses for my new found language skills," said one expat in Cologne.

"Expatriates moving to Germany can experience a prosperous economy, a vibrant culture, and a high quality of life. Germany also has a strong education system and flourishing industries, making it an ideal place for professionals to develop their career. Furthermore, the country has an efficient transportation network, low cost of living, and plenty of opportunities for leisure activities and cultural exploration. Additionally, Germany is fairly accessible for foreign nationals and provides a safe place to live and work. With its rich history and dynamic present, Germany has something to offer for everyone, making it an appealing destination for expats," wrote one expat living in Germany.

"Germany has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is funded by a combination of taxes and social security contributions, and is generally of a high quality. All German citizens and permanent residents are entitled to access the public healthcare system, and foreign residents are also eligible to use it, although they may have to pay a fee. Expats in Germany can use the public healthcare system, but they must first register with a local health insurance provider. Once registered, they can access the same services as German citizens, including preventive care, hospitalization, and specialist care," wrote one expat living in Germany.

"Germany has a well-developed healthcare system that provides high-quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a wide range of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. Doctors in Germany are highly trained and experienced, and the country has a strong emphasis on preventive care. Germany also has a comprehensive network of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications. In addition, Germany has a number of health insurance plans that provide coverage for medical services," replied one expat when asked about moving to Germany.