German states Discover Germany! Get to know more about the industries and the services offering their help in each federal state. German federal states at a glance Welcome to the Federal Republic of Germany. Due to its central location, Germany shares borders with a total of nine neighbouring European countries. The Federal Republic extends from the Alps in the south to the North and Baltic Seas. As a federal system, the German Federal Republic consists of 16 federal states whose state governmen...

Child care Every child is entitled to childcare in order to receive individual support. Find out here what types of childcare exist. Early support for children in child daycare facilities is an important contribution to equal opportunities. Children can build relationships with their peers and benefit from age-appropriate educational programmes. Early childhood educators support and accompany them in this process. Through a variety of offers, activities and different pedagogical approaches, they...

Financial support for families In Germany, it is possible for both parents to take parental leave after the birth of their child. You can find further information on the duration and possibilities for financial support here. Parental leave After the birth of a child, mothers and fathers have the right to take a break from work to care for their child and spend time with their family. During this time, the employer may only terminate the employment relationship in exceptional circumstances (e.g....

Unemployment You have lost your job? No problem! If you worked in Germany before, you will receive support. If you have yet to find a job, register with your local employment agency (Arbeitsagentur) If you are not taking up employment immediately upon your return to Germany, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits . You will need to visit your local employment agency in person to register. If you are not residing in Germany, you do not have to notify the agency three months prior to the en...

Language classes It is worthwhile learning the German language before entering Germany. Find German courses in your area. Key facts at a glance German is the most commonly spoken mother tongue in Europe Around 130 million people worldwide speak German as a first or second language German is an official language of Germany, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland and Liechtenstein Initially, you will be able to get by in English in many parts of Germany. However, it is essential to learn German...

Integration courses In Germany, integration courses are official language courses and orientation courses. They are a great option for learning more about the German society. Integration courses cover everyday topics such as work and professions, shopping, television or childhood education. Participants also learn how to deal with administrative offices, how to write emails or letters and how to carry oneself properly in job interviews. You will learn about culture and politics, living together...

Housing and registration Finding a new home in Germany. We show you how to successfully find an apartment or a room in Germany. There is a large supply of high-quality rental accommodation in Germany, but demand is also high, especially in the major cities. We give you tips and explain what you should consider before and after moving in. Your first accommodation Until you find a place to live in Germany, you can stay in a furnished holiday flat, hostel, hotel or youth hostel. However, it will no...

Health insurance In Germany, you are required to take out health insurance. We will give you an overview of the types of health insurance and their services. In Germany, it is compulsory to take out health insurance. A distinction is made between statutory and private health insurance. These are two different systems and you cannot switch between them freely. It is advisable to take out international health insurance for the first few days or weeks of your stay in Germany before you have health...

Social security Do you have employment in Germany that is subject to social security contributions? Find out more about what that means here. General information If you are a skilled professional returning to Germany after a longer stay abroad, your prospects of getting a foot back on the ladder are excellent. If you have been seconded to a post abroad, your company will probably refer you to a relocation agency that will give you all the information you need and take care of the most important...

Mobility in Germany There are a number of ways to get around in Germany. The main means of transport are cars, buses, trains and bicycles. Bicycles and electric scooters Cycling can be a quick and cheap alternative in both rural and urban areas. Second-hand bicycles can be bought at a low cost, for example at specialist bike flea markets. Many large cities also offer rental bikes, enabling you to rent a bike long term (subscription) and obtain services such as repairs. If you prefer to cycle onl...