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Expat life in Germany
Germany's quiet countryside and dynamic and multicultural cities make it one of the most attractive countries to live in the world. With surprisingly few expats in the country, it remains quintessentially German and the expats who have relocated there vote it one of the best international postings.
The main cities in Germany have a distinct and lively feel. Cultural activities abound, and the temperate climate encourages healthy outdoor pursuits of all kinds. Satellite cities such as Düsseldorf and Berlin, Frankfurt and Hamburg, Dresden and Cologne, mean that some of the world's most appealing city destinations are within easy reach. There are enormous possibilities for city breaks outside of the country, too, as Germany boasts an astonishing nine other European nations as neighbours.
With an almost infallible infrastructure throughout the country, from transport to education and health services, life for an expat resident can be very comfortable indeed. The irresistible combination of ranking high on liveability surveys, and low on lists measuring the most expensive cities to live means that there is much to enjoy when relocating to Germany. Learning the language and doing some homework on the city of your choice will significantly enhance your experience and appreciation for this country of contrasts.
Health insurance for Germany
Health care provision is considered excellent in Germany, with a ranking 25 of in the WHO's World Health Report of 2000. It enjoys a generous 11.3 percent of the GDP, so it’s no wonder that facilities are well run and staffed with well-trained professionals.
Moving to Germany
Known for its liberal culture, strong economy and trendy cities, Germany is one of Europe’s most attractive expat destinations. Our guide covers what you need to do before you move and once you get there.
Finding the right job for you in Germany
Despite a low number of expats in the country, the good news is there are excellent opportunities for the right kind of person in Germany.
Tips for working in Germany
Germany has a strong economy: being the largest in Europe and fifth largest in the world. This strength combined with great employment prospects in certain well-paid sectors, and some of the best working conditions in Europe, make it an ideal place to start a new job.
The German working environment
Below are some general guidelines for doing business in Germany. These suggestions are for traditional office and business environments, but they could be embarrassingly out of place in, say, an urban start-up. If in doubt, use the golden rule: do as those around you do.
Finding A Place To Call Home
Taking a global view, Germany is not an expensive place to live. In Mercer’s 2016 list of most expensive cities in the world to live, Munich is number 77, and the next German city is Frankfurt, at number 88.
A new way of life
With a stable, significant, and robust economy much of the population enjoys a good standard of living, and in the cities where living expenses are higher, you’ll find salaries will be too.
The cost of living
Germany is not a particularly expensive place to live, and this was confirmed during the 2016 Mercer survey, with no German cities appearing in the cost of living Top 50 rankings.
Buying a property
Buying property in Germany is not to be undertaken lightly. The German population aren’t typically home owners. Making a large purchase is considered a once-in-a-lifetime activity, unlike the US and UK property markets where buying.
Making the best of your money
The currency used in Germany is the Euro. Divided into 100 cents, it’s available in a range of denominations from 1 cent coins to 500 Euro notes.
