Useful everyday knowledge Find answers to frequently asked questions about Germany. Topics range from public holidays and emergency numbers to mobile phone contracts. Useful everyday knowledge Many things are different in Germany, such as opening hours of stores, waste separation or the purchase of a SIM card. Here you will find answers to the most important questions about everyday life in Germany. What public holidays are there in Germany? In Germany, public holidays are determined by the federal states. The only exception is the national holiday on 3 October – the Day of German Unity – which is set by federal law and applies throughout Germany. There are also a number of public holidays that have been declared by all the federal states, which means that they apply to the whole of Germany. Examples include New Year’s Day, Easter and Christmas. In Germany, you do not have to work on public holidays and your children do not have to go to school. Shops and supermarkets remain closed on public holidays, which is why many German families use such days to go on trips or simply to relax. Most public holidays in Germany have a religious background, especially at Christmas and Easter, when a sense of peace and quiet is expected. The climate in Germany Germany has a temperate climate with continental influences. This means that there are distinct seasons with different temperatures. The average annual temperature is 10.9 degrees. In the north of Germany, especially in the coastal regions,

Leisure What is life like in Germany? This section contains information on what you can do in your free time and how to meet new people in Germany. Getting to know new people It can be difficult to move to a new country and leave all your friends and family behind. Here are some useful tips to help you settle in quickly in Germany! Do you like to play football, or would you like to try your hand at a new sport? Germany has a strong club culture. You are free to join any sports club and meet new people. Check out the clubs in your area – either in person or online – or just ask your new colleagues. Those who prefer mental to physical exercise can take a course at an adult education centre (External link) . You can take courses on a wide range of topics at one of over 840 locations across Germany. Adult education centres also offer language courses – you may meet other skilled workers from abroad who are in a similar situation and are also looking for contacts in Germany. Those with a creative streak can take art classes or join a drama group or choir. Many municipalities have their own special communities or charitable organisations that are always on the look-out for new helpers. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people while doing something good for society. Often there are also clubs dedicated to promoting intercultural exchange in a city. They organise all kinds of events where you can meet new people and improve your German. Some cities also run cultural clubs where

Contacts worldwide Are you looking for a competent German mission abroad? You can find their services and contact details in our overview of advisory and contact points. Enter the corresponding country below. Discover your path to Germany. Find contact information and services provided by German institutions in Philippines Specialized Programmes for Skilled Professionals from Philippines Ready to make the move? Explore programmes designed to help Philippine professionals like you to build a career in Germany. Advisory Services: ProRecognition Looking for a career in Germany? The ProRecognition experts help you recognize your foreign qualifications, prepare for the German job market, and find your dream job. Benefit from a variety of free advisory services. Preparation Courses at Goethe-Institut Whether you're looking for information on language courses, or simply want to know what to expect when moving to a new country? The expert advisors of the Goethe-Institut are here to help.