Arriving & Living in Germany

Whether you require German language skills often depends on the profession to be practised. As a rule, it will be easier for you to find a job if you speak German (exceptions are possible, e.g., in the IT industry). German language skills are also important for everyday life, as well as participation on a societal level. Experience shows that language level B1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a good basis for getting by in Germany.

Please visit the “Learning German” section to find out how and where you can learn German.

In some cases, a proof of your German language skills is required for the visa application. This applies to certain professions (e.g., nursing professionals) and for some visas (e.g., visa for vocational training).

Please find detailed information in the “Do I need to know German?”.

In principle, yes. If you and your spouse or children are from the European Union, the European Economic Area or Switzerland, moving to Germany is very easy. No visa is required. If your spouse or children are from a third country, they will need a residence permit for the purpose of family reunification. Under certain conditions, it may also be possible for your parents or parents-in-law to join you in Germany.

Further information can be found in the “Family reunification” section and at the competent German mission or the local foreigners authority.

The cost of living depends heavily on where you live in Germany. The following guide figures per month and per person are intended to provide an initial guide – they can vary, in some cases considerably, depending on the region, type of accommodation, and personal lifestyle:

• Rent (basic rent, depending on location and size of flat): approx. 350–1,000 euros
  Note: Those living in halls of residence (e.g. whilst undergoing vocational training or studying) often pay significantly less than in private accommodation.
• Utility bills (heating, water, electricity): approx. 80–250 euros
• Food: approx. 200–350 euros
  Note: Cooking for yourself and shopping at discount supermarkets is considerably cheaper than more upmarket shopping habits and eating out.
• Transport, leisure, and communication: approx. 150–350 euros
  Note: Expenditure varies greatly depending on whether you use a public transport pass or a car. There is also a wide range of costs for sports activities and other personal purchases. Please bear in mind that, particularly when you first arrive in Germany, you may need to make some initial purchases (furniture, etc.).

Important: These figures vary significantly depending on the region – in particular, rent in major cities is often 40 to 50 percent higher than in rural areas or smaller towns. Your individual lifestyle (e.g. type of accommodation, shopping habits) also plays a major role. You should therefore find out specifically about the costs at your particular destination before moving, for example, by consulting regional rent indices.

Further information can be found in the sections “Housing and mobility” and “Settling” in Germany.

Yes, your work visa or residence permit for employment purposes is generally valid for the duration of your employment. If you meet certain requirements, you can also obtain a permanent residence permit, known as a settlement permit. This allows you to live in Germany permanently. When you can apply for a settlement permit depends primarily on your (current) residence permit. Holders of a Blue Card can, for example, obtain a settlement permit after 27 months or, if they have sufficient German language skills, even after 21 months. 

You can find further information in the “Living permanently in Germany” section.

Yes, you generally can apply for German citizenship after five years of legal residence in Germany, if you meet all other requirements. You can retain your previous citizenship if your country of origin allows it. 

Please refer to the “Naturalisation” section to find more information on the procedure.