Family Life in Germany

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.

If you have individual questions about working and living in Germany that are not answered on the portal, the experts at the German- and English-language “Working and Living in Germany” hotline will be happy to help you. They can provide you with information on job hunting, work and career, recognition of foreign professional qualifications, entry and residence, and learning German.

The appropriate visa for you depends on many different factors, for example, your qualifications, the job you wish to pursue in Germany or your future salary. Your individual situation and the requirements of your future employer in Germany also play a role. You can get some initial guidance with the help of the Quick-Check.

You can find out which visas are available for employment purposes and what requirements you must meet to apply for them in the “Types of visa” section.