5 Things to Consider Before Moving to Germany
Moving to another country can be a daunting prospect, especially if you have not done your research beforehand. Here are five things to consider before moving to Germany.
Learning the Language
An important factor to consider before moving is the potential language barrier. If you find yourself in the big cities such as Berlin and Hamburg, many of the locals speak English as their second language. However, if you are moving to places outside the city or in rural areas, you may find next to no English speakers. It is advisable to begin learning as much as you can before you make the move. There are many online websites such as Babbel which offer free German language classes, ranging from beginner through to intermediate.
Residency
It goes without saying that to travel and work in Germany, you must possess a valid passport. If you are moving with others and to avoid any problems, ensure your passports are in date for the duration of your stay. Also, you will be required to have a working visa for however long you are in the country, so be sure to research to find out what type of visa you will require and any other terms and conditions that may follow. Websites such as Santa Fe Relocation give more detail about the residency process along with general information pages about living in the country – this information on moving to Germany goes into detail about education, as well as many other important factors to consider.
Accommodation
If you have ever holidayed in Germany before, there is a big difference between visiting for a few days to residing there. It is important you do as much research as possible on what sort of accommodation works best for you. Be aware that like anywhere in the world, the prices of apartments and houses will be much higher in the city than those outside. With Germany being heavily populated, many choose to rent, so consider whether you wish to do the same or buy before you move.
German Culture
Many choose to move to Germany because of its diverse and vibrant culture. The country prides itself on hard work, good values, and respect, with many regarding the country as the top international relocation destination. No matter where you plan on moving to, there are a variety of annual events and festivals that take place, such as Oktoberfest. Whilst the festival’s origins are in Munich, the festival is celebrated across the whole of the country throughout September and October.
Transport
Be sure to consider whether you need to purchase a car whilst living in Germany. The country is renowned for its excellent and frequent bus, tram, and train services that run nearly 24 hours of the day. Also, the cost of transport is much cheaper than a lot of the other European countries, so it is best to research on whether you will save money in the long run.
If you need more information on any topic before moving, there are plenty of resources online to investigate, as well as forums that are designed for ex-pats who can give you a clear and honest opinion about their move to Germany.
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