Moving to Germany

Looking to relocate to Germany? Packing up your household belongings and moving somewhere new can be challenging, but these five things should help to make things a little easier. Thanks to our comprehensive guide, moving to Germany can be something you can look forward to. There are several things you need to consider, which is why we’ve outlined the most important elements of moving to Germany. This includes some general information about Germany as well as things you need in order to complete the move.

Relocating to Germany

From restrictions on household goods, cash limits and regulations on bringing animals into the country, here are some things to be aware of when moving to Germany. No matter where you want to move to, you want the relocation process to run as smoothly as possible. And that’s why it’s important to be familiar with the rules and regulations associated with moving to Germany as well as the kind of lifestyle it offers.

Moving Your Belongings

When it comes to moving and shipping household goods, even the thought of it can become stressful. However, understanding the process and how it works will help to make the move easier. Please be aware that when you’re moving to Germany, you must make it clear that the items you are bringing with you are for domestic purposes. You’re not allowed to bring in items that you are then going to sell. There are no restrictions on the number of goods you can bring with you, providing they are not of a commercial nature. 

 

As part of the moving process, you may require a secure storage facility to keep your belongings in. There is a vast choice of both long-term and short-term companies who are known for keeping items safe for whatever timeframe necessary. The cost of keeping your belongings in a storage facility depends on how long they are there and how much room is needed. Typically, prices are around €70 per month for 3 square meters to around €380 for 22 square meters of space.

Bringing Your Pet to Germany

Quite often we have people who dream of moving home but can’t ever imagine a life without their pet. Cats, dogs and other domestic animals are seen as part of the family, so you’ll be pleased to know that you can bring them with you if you’re moving to Germany. It’s essential that you plan this in advance as there is a lot of paperwork that needs to be filled in.

 

The rules and regulations for bringing your pet with you to Germany can vary depending on the area you’re going to call home. European law states that you may bring up to five animals for every one person travelling. Please note that if you’re travelling with more than this, you have to follow the requirements for the commercial pet trade.

 

You must also ensure that your pet has had all of the necessary vaccinations for the move. This includes having your pet immunised for rabies, having them chipped and also having a pet passport for them (identification document).

Visas & Work Permits

Moving to Germany from another country will require you to obtain a visa and potentially a work permit too. For those of you who are an EU national, the process is relatively straightforward - all you need to do is register with the local authorities once you’ve found somewhere to live. When you’re relocating from outside the region, you must begin Germany’s visa application process. Making sure you have the correct visa is essential as it can lead to complications if not. 

 

Please also be aware that you are not always granted the right to work in Germany by simply having a residence permit.  EU nationals may be able to find employment automatically while other expats may have to apply for a work permit to allow them to find a job. If you are looking to find a job in Germany, the Federal Employment Agency is a great place to obtain any information you need. They’re able to offer advice on how to search for a job as well as how to apply with a CV and cover letter. 

The Things to Do

We know that an important part of looking for properties in Germany is the things to do nearby. Having plenty of amenities and activities close by is an important factor for many house hunters. From the famous Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall to the hidden gems of Saxon Switzerland National Park and Zugspitze, there are plenty of things to do throughout the whole of Germany. Check out our area guides below to find out more:

 

Finding a Property

Although there are lots of things to consider when moving to Germany, the most important part is finding a property. If you’re looking to purchase a home, choosing a reputable estate agency is a must. House prices play a huge part in the process as it’s essential to find something that is within your budget as well as something that meets your requirements. The cost of property in Germany varies depending on the location: Munich tends to be the most expensive while Hanover is known for being more affordable.