If you’re considering moving to Germany from the US, you might be wondering if this is the right move for you, and what to expect from starting a life in Germany.
Moving to a new country can be both exciting and daunting, and it’s important to be prepared. I have moved back and forth between Germany and the US a few times, so I know what it’s like to leave one place for the other. In this post, we’ll cover some of the most helpful things you need to know before moving to Germany.
Prepare for your Move to Germany
Whether you’re moving for work, study, or just for a change of scenery, Germany is a wonderful place to call home. I should know, as I happily spent 25 years of my life living in Germany. But before you pack your bags and hop on a plane, there are a few things you need to know.
Learn some German (or at least try)
Let’s start with the obvious: Germany is a German-speaking country. While many Germans do speak English, especially in big cities like Berlin and Munich, it’s always a good idea to learn some German. Not only will it help you get by in everyday life, but it will also show the locals that you’re making an effort to integrate.
Now, learning a new language can be difficult. But don’t worry, there are plenty of resources out there to help you. You can take classes at a local language school, hire a private tutor, or even use apps like Duolingo or Babbel.
And if all else fails, just try your best to speak some basic German phrases. The locals will appreciate it!
Learn the dos and don’ts of German etiquette
German culture has its own unique set of customs and social norms, so it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with them to avoid any cultural faux pas and misunderstandings. Here are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do:
- Shake hands when meeting someone for the first time (in formal settings)
- Address people by their last name and use “Herr” (Mr.) or “Frau” (Ms.) before their name (in formal settings)
- Wait for the pedestrian light to turn green before crossing the street
- Sort your trash into different bins for recycling
Don’t:
- Be late for appointments or meetings
- Interrupt someone while they’re speaking
- Jaywalk or cross the street when the light is red
- Forget to bring cash when paying for smaller purchases
Getting Settled in Germany
Once you have arrived in Germany, there are quite a few steps you need to take first to get settled.
Get ready for bureaucracy
Bureaucracy – not the most exciting topic, but it’s an important one when it comes to moving to Germany. Germany is known for its love of paperwork and rules, so be prepared to jump through a few hoops.
One of the first things you’ll need to do is register your address with the local authorities. This is is mandatory for anyone staying in Germany for more than three months. You’ll also need to apply for a residence permit if you’re staying for longer than 90 days. And don’t forget about health insurance – it’s mandatory in Germany, so make sure you have it sorted before you arrive.
Find a place to live
Finding a place to live in Germany can be a challenge, especially in popular cities like Berlin, Munich, or Hamburg. Rental prices can be high, and the process of finding the right apartment or house can take time.
One thing to keep in mind is that Germans value their personal space, so don’t be surprised if apartments and houses are smaller than what you’re used to in the US.
You may also need to adjust to different housing layouts and amenities, such as shared laundry facilities or smaller kitchens.
And don’t be surprised if you are required to purchase your own kitchen – including cabinets and appliances. It is not always provided in a rental, some people actually take their kitchens with them when they move to a new place.
To find a place to live, start by browsing online listings and reaching out to local real estate agents. It can also be helpful to network with other expats or colleagues in your field to get recommendations for housing options.
Get a bank account
Opening a bank account is an important step when moving to Germany, as it will allow you to pay bills, receive your salary, and make purchases without carrying around large amounts of cash. German banks offer a variety of account options, including checking accounts, savings accounts, and investment accounts.
To open an account, you’ll typically need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport or ID card. Some banks may also require you to have a German tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer).
Figure out Your Way Around with Transportation
Germany has great public transportation, which makes getting around a breeze. Whether you’re in a big city or a small town, you can usually rely on trains, buses, trams, and subways to get you where you need to go.
One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to buy a ticket before you board any public transport. You can buy tickets at ticket machines or online, and they’re usually valid for a certain amount of time (e.g. one hour). And if you’re planning on traveling a lot, you might want to consider getting a monthly or yearly pass – it can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Embrace the German Culture
Germany has a rich and diverse culture, and it’s important to embrace it if you want to fully enjoy your time there. From the food to the festivals to the language, there’s so much to discover. Go to a beer festival (or two), try some traditional German cuisine (hello, Schnitzel and Sauerkraut!), and visit museums and historical sites.
Enjoy German Food
Germany is known for its hearty cuisine, which includes dishes like Schnitzel, sausages, and Sauerkraut. But there’s much more to German food than just meat and potatoes. Regional specialties like Spätzle (a type of pasta) in Baden-Württemberg or Currywurst (a type of sausage with curry ketchup) in Berlin are worth exploring.
And don’t forget about German desserts and baked goods, such as Black Forest cake, apple strudel, and pretzels (my absolute favorite – and don’t make the mistake to eat them with mustard – butter is the preferred choice here). Be sure to indulge in a Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) break at one of the many cozy cafes around the country.
Enjoy the outdoors
Germany is a beautiful country with plenty of natural beauty to explore. From the Alps in the south to the beaches in the north, there’s something for everyone.
One of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors in Germany is to go for a hike. There are plenty of hiking trails all over the country, from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs. And if hiking isn’t your thing, you can always rent a bike and explore the countryside on two wheels.
Germany is also home to some beautiful parks and gardens. Pretty much every city has nice green parks where Germans love to go on walks or sunbathe in the summer.
For example, the Tiergarten in Berlin is a massive park right in the heart of the city, while the English Garden in Munich is one of the largest urban parks in the world. And if you’re a fan of castles and palaces, there are plenty of them to explore in Germany as well, including the famous Neuschwanstein Castle.
Join local clubs and organizations
Joining local clubs and organizations is a great way to meet new people and get involved in the community. Whether you’re interested in sports, music, or volunteering, there’s likely a group that matches your interests.
Conclusion
Moving to Germany from the US will be an exciting and rewarding experience that you surely won’t regret! But it’s important to be prepared for the cultural and logistical differences you may encounter.
Just like a move to the US can be a challenge for Europeans, moving to Germany from the US requires some preparation. Learn the language, familiarize yourself with the customs, and connect with the local community and you’ll get the most out of your stay in my beautiful homeland!