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Moving to Germany

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Select your destination

Moving to Germany

Select your destination

Moving to Germany

Search for a country guide

How to move to Germany

House Prices and Renting

The cost of housing in Germany varies by city, with Munich being the most expensive.

  • Average Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in Munich costs around $1,500 per month, while in smaller cities like Leipzig or Bremen, rent is closer to $900 per month.

  • Popular Neighborhoods: Expats often choose areas like Prenzlauer Berg in Berlin for its vibrant atmosphere, while those looking for affordability prefer Düsseldorf or Stuttgart.

  • Buying a Home: The average cost per square foot in Berlin is approximately $600, with lower prices in smaller towns.

Job Opportunities

Germany has a strong job market with high demand in several industries, including engineering, technology, and healthcare.

  • Key Industries: Automotive, IT, finance, and manufacturing.

  • Job Search Tips: Expats can find jobs through platforms like StepStone, Indeed Germany, and LinkedIn. Learning basic German can improve job prospects.

  • Work Culture: German workplaces emphasize efficiency, punctuality, and structure.

Immigrate to Germany

Moving internationally involves several expenses:

  • Shipping Costs: The cost of shipping a 20-foot container from the US to Germany ranges from $3,500 to $6,000.

  • Customs Fees: Germany has strict import regulations; items may be subject to VAT and customs duties.

  • Flights: One-way tickets from the US to Germany range from $500 to $1,200, depending on the season and airline.

Visa and Residency Requirements

US citizens need a residence permit to live and work in Germany long-term.

  1. Job Seeker Visa: Allows US citizens to stay in Germany for six months while searching for employment.

  2. Work Visa: Requires a job offer from a German employer.

  3. Blue Card: Available for highly skilled professionals with a high salary offer.

  4. Permanent Residency: After five years of continuous residence, expats can apply for permanent status.

Healthcare and Education

Germany offers high-quality public services:

  • Healthcare: Germany has a mandatory health insurance system, with public and private options available. Public healthcare costs significantly less than in the US.

  • Education: Public schools are free and highly rated. International and private schools are also available in major cities.

Moving Checklist

A step-by-step guide for US citizens moving to Germany:

  1. Secure a residence permit.

  2. Arrange housing before arrival.

  3. Research job opportunities or secure employment.

  4. Organize healthcare coverage.

  5. Ship necessary belongings while adhering to customs regulations.

  6. Learn basic German to ease integration.

Food & Drink

German cuisine is known for its hearty dishes and diverse flavors:

  • Popular Foods: Bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel, and sauerkraut.

  • Dining Customs: Tipping around 5-10% is common, and meals are often enjoyed with beer.

  • International Cuisine: Major cities offer a variety of global food options, including American-style restaurants.

Culture

Adapting to German culture can help with a smooth transition:

  • Social Customs: Germans value direct communication and punctuality.

  • Key Traditions: Oktoberfest, Christmas markets, and Karneval are widely celebrated.

  • Events: Festivals such as Berlinale and Wacken Open Air attract visitors from all over the world.

Moving to Germany from the US offers a chance to experience a rich culture, excellent public services, and a thriving job market. With proper planning, your transition to Germany can be smooth and rewarding.



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Relocately enables you to manage everything related to your relocation, or that of your employees, in one, simple place. We help over 150.000 customers a year with relocating to over 140 countries. Our services range from comparing moving companies, housing / short say to immigration services and currency exchange and more! Find out here what we have to offer in your city!

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