Planning to move to Germany? Discover 10 essential tips for expats in 2025 — from housing and bureaucracy to health insurance and making friends.
Moving to Germany can be an exciting adventure — but it also comes with challenges and surprises. Based on real expat experiences, this guide will help you navigate everything from paperwork and housing to cultural habits and work rights, so your transition is as smooth as possible.
Blog Reminder:
💡 This list is just a quick checklist to get you started. Over the next weeks, we'll deep dive into each topic, sharing detailed guides, tips, and real-life experiences from our Find Around community. Stay tuned — your move to Germany just got a lot easier!
1. The Bureaucracy is Real — Prepare for Paperwork
Germany is famous for its detailed bureaucracy. One of the first things you must do is register your address at the local registration office . This registration is essential for everything: opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, getting a phone plan, or even starting a job.
Also, getting your tax ID and health insurance requires time and patience. Don't expect these processes to be instant — booking appointments early is key.
💡 Pro Tip: Book your registration appointment online as soon as you know your move-in date. In big cities, slots can fill up weeks in advance.
2. Finding Housing Can Be Challenging and Competitive
Apartment hunting in Germany can be tough, especially in bigger cities like Berlin, Munich, or Hamburg. Landlords usually require proof of income, a Schufa credit report, and references. Deposits often equal 2–3 months' rent and must be paid upfront.
Start your search early, use trusted websites like Immobilienscout24 or WG-Gesucht for shared flats, and consider suburbs for more affordable options.
💡 Pro Tip: Prepare a digital “rental application folder” with all required documents before you even start visiting apartments — this helps you apply faster.
3. Health Insurance is Mandatory and Can Be Confusing
Health insurance is not optional — everyone living in Germany must have it. You can choose between public ( gesetzliche Krankenversicherung ) and private ( private Krankenversicherung ) coverage.
Public insurance is usually cheaper and covers most people, but if you're self-employed or earn above a certain income, private insurance might be an option. Register quickly to avoid problems later.
💡 Pro Tip: If you don't yet have a job, some public providers allow you to register as a “voluntary member” until your employment starts.
4. Opening a Bank Account Requires Documents and Patience
To open a bank account, you'll need your registration , passport, and sometimes proof of income. Online banks like N26 or DKB offer English interfaces and faster signups, while traditional banks require more paperwork but offer in-person service.
💡 Pro Tip: If you need a bank account before your registration , try online services like Wise or Revolut to handle initial payments.
5. Public Transport is Reliable but Know Your Options
Germany's public transport is efficient and extensive. Regional trains ( S-Bahn ), buses, trams, and the U-Bahn (subway) cover most areas.
The Deutschlandticket offers unlimited regional transport for a fixed monthly fee — perfect for commuters and budget travelers.
💡 Pro Tip: Download the DB Navigator app — it shows schedules, real-time delays, and allows you to buy tickets directly.
6. Learning German is Essential, Even Basic Skills Help a Lot
While many Germans speak English, daily life is much easier when you know some German. Basic skills will help you shop, handle paperwork, and make friends.
💡 Pro Tip: Join a local Sprachcafé — these are free or low-cost conversation meetups where you can practice in a friendly setting.
7. Cultural Habits Matter — Punctuality, Recycling, and Quiet Hours
Germans value punctuality — being late is often seen as disrespectful. Recycling is taken seriously, with different bins for paper, plastic, glass, and organic waste. Also, quiet hours are enforced , especially on Sundays.
💡 Pro Tip: If you're unsure about recycling rules, check your local city website — each municipality has its own system.
8. The Cost of Living Varies Widely Between Cities
Rent and daily expenses vary a lot. Big cities like Munich and Frankfurt are expensive, while smaller towns are more affordable. Plan your budget carefully to avoid surprises.
💡 Pro Tip: Always ask landlords if utilities ( additional costs ) are included in rent — in winter, heating costs can be significant.
9. Working Rights Are Strong, but Know Your Contract
Germany offers strong labor protections. Your employment contract should clearly state salary, hours, vacation days, and notice periods. Read everything carefully before signing.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep a copy of your contract in both German and English if possible — it helps avoid misunderstandings.
10. Expect a Different Social Life — It Takes Time to Make Friends
Making friends can take time in Germany. Join clubs, language groups , or local events to meet people. Patience and consistency pay off.
💡 Pro Tip: Volunteer for local events or festivals — it's one of the fastest ways to meet locals and practice German.1
💡 Want to go even deeper?
This blog post is just a starting point! We also recorded a two-part podcast-style video series where we share extra insights, practical advice, and real-life stories about moving to and living in Germany.
🎧 In Part 1 , you'll get a closer look at the first essential steps, including common mistakes to avoid and tips that didn't fit into this article.
🎧 In Part 2 , we go further with more detailed experiences and important topics every expat should know.
👉 Watch Part 1 first, then continue with Part 2 below — it's like having a full conversation with a friend who's already been through the journey!
PODCAST - PART 1
Final Thoughts
Moving to Germany is a journey full of learning and discovery. With preparation and an open mind, you'll soon feel at home in your new country.
💡 Blog Reminder: As mentioned earlier, this is just our kick-off! In the upcoming posts, we'll break down each topic in detail, helping you navigate your new life in Germany with confidence. Stay tuned — read the next post here: Moving to Germany: Bureaucracy & Your First Step — The Anmeldung
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