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....

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...

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...

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...

School system & compulsory education Germany is known worldwide for its education system. Here you can find out more about the German school system. Germany's school system Your children need to attend school from the age of six, as school attendance is compulsory in Germany. The majority of schools in Germany are run by the state and offer free education. You also have the option of sending your children to fee-paying private and international schools. Home education is only allowed in exceptio...

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...

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...

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...

Additional insurances Safety first: find out which insurances you should take out in Germany. Liability insurance Liability insurance pays if you damage or destroy another person's belongings. For example, if you break a vase or spill coffee on a friend's smartphone. Most Germans have that kind of insurance because it is inexpensive and protects you from having to pay for the damage with your own money. Household contents insurance This insurance covers all items inside your house or flat. For e...

Visa for vocational training Are you interested in completing vocational training in Germany? There is a special visa application procedure for this. You can find out more here. Vocational training in Germany opens many doors and is the best way to prepare yourself for the world of work in Germany. There are two options: you can either complete school-based or in-company vocational training. In either case, you may need a residence title under Section 16a of the Residence Act (AufenthG). To find...