Discover Germany

Property can be expensive, so it’s not uncommon to rent. Tall apartment buildings called ‘Wohnsilos’ can be seen across German cityscapes. You’ll also find single and 2-storey townhouses in central areas. Larger family homes are usually located in the suburbs.

The rental market can be competitive so having all your documentation, including your application form and residency permit (if needed), ready can help you secure a property. Check the length of the tenancy agreement to make sure it’s right for you before you apply.

Before moving into a rented property, speak to your landlord about what furniture and furnishings are included so you’ll know what you need to buy. It’s also important to ask about if any bills are covered in your rental, or if you’ll need to set these up and cover the costs yourself.

Although the cost of living in Germany may seem high, it’s close to the average cost of living in Europe.

City life is more expensive than in rural areas. Private healthcare is pricey, as are fees for international schools. If you'll need to pay for these while living in Germany, it can be useful to work out a budget to cover the costs in advance. 

Travel costs can be low due to extensive and affordable urban public transport systems.

State schools are a good option if you plan to stay long term. The education system is managed at state level and there are regional differences. Local schooling is free and it’s a good way to help your children adapt to their new surroundings.

There are international schools throughout Germany that follow the American, British, or Australian curriculum, or the International Baccalaureate. You’ll need to pay fees for your child to attend an international school.

Home schooling is not permitted in Germany.

The school year varies between the 16 German states, but usually starts in late August or early September. Attendance is usually required Monday to Friday, but in some areas, students also attend on a Saturday. School is compulsory for children aged 6 to 18 years old.

Germany has an excellent healthcare system.

Health insurance is compulsory for all residents in Germany, including expats. Most residents join a ‘statutory’ health insurance provider and pay monthly insurance contributions. There’s also private health insurance available, but this is primarily for self-employed residents, civil servants, or high earners.

Pharmacies (Apotheken) are widespread in all German towns and cities. If you’re looking for a pharmacy, they’re generally easy to spot – look for the big red ‘A’ on their doors and windows. Medicines can be expensive, but they may be covered by your medical insurance.

The emergency number for an ambulance in the Germany is 112.

Germany is home to the famous Autobahn, as well as well-kept scenic roads.

The country’s public transport systems are reliable and integrated so it can be easy to get around. Many German cities have a combination of light rail (Stadtbahn), underground (U-Bahn) and suburban commuter rail (S-Bahn) services. Frequent intercity and EuroCity trains cover longer distances. Most German cities also have buses that will take you to the few places the trains don’t reach.

Cycling is becoming increasingly popular with numerous cycle routes across the country. Most of these are in the countryside, but cities such as Berlin, Bremen, Munich and Münster are cycle friendly.