Bank account How do I open a bank account in Germany? We explain what you need to consider when opening an account. If you plan on living in Germany long term, you require a German bank account ( current account ) to rent a flat or to receive your salary via bank transfer, for instance. But you will also be able to use your debit card (Girokarte) in your day-to-day life, for example, to pay at the supermarket. You can use you debit card in other countries in Europe which use the euro as currency...

Employment & earnings Many employee benefits and above-average salaries in various industries: Here you can find out how much life costs in Germany. Low unemployment rates in Germany In 2021, Germany had an unemployment rate of 3.6 per cent. The country therefore has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world. While elsewhere in Europe youth unemployment has risen significantly in the past few years, Germany's dual education system has paid off. In 2021, only 7.8 per cent of 15- to 24-yea...

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 fede...

Driving licence & car Have you obtained your driving licence outside Germany? Here you will find all the information you need to drive a car in Germany. Driving a car: Is my driving licence valid in Germany? Many people in Germany have their own car, but if you prefer not to, you can easily rent a car on demand through car sharing. Car sharing and carpooling sites In urban areas, there are many car-sharing services from different providers. You will need the appropriate app to make bookings. Car...

Education Germany is known worldwide for its education system. Here you can find out how the German education system works. Your children are well looked after Parents can go about their professional occupations with commitment and focus without worrying about their little ones. In March 2024, about 60,662 public and private day care facilities were available in Germany. Child care in Germany begins at an early age: In 2024 more than one third of the children aged 0 to 3 were supervised in a day...

Economy Would you like to know more about the German economy? On this page, you can learn more about the defining characteristics of Germany’s economic activity. German industry generates high earnings Despite major cyclical fluctuations, earnings have risen in most economic sectors over the past few years. The sectors focussing on export play a crucial role in this. The automotive industry remains the leader: it posted earnings of 564 billion euros in 2023. As an innovation leader, it is an i...

Politics, democracy, freedom You are moving to Germany and would like to know more about the country’s political system? This page provides you with an overview of the topic. Key facts at a glance Population 83.5 million Form of government Parliamentary democracy Capital Berlin Currency 1 euro (EUR) = 100 cents Democracy Since the German nation state was founded in 1871, Germany has had a long history. There were many challenges, including the world wars and the dictatorship of the national so...