Living in Germany
All the tips, essential information and practical advice you need for living in Germany.
Everything you can borrow from a library in Germany
German libraries are a fabulous resource for anyone living in the country, offering not just books but everything from ice cream makers to umbrellas and even works of art to hang on your walls at home.
How to watch the Six Nations Rugby in Germany in 2026
It’s Six Nations season again. And this year it’s easier than ever to follow every scrum, tackle and try in Germany – even if most people in the country have still never heard of rugby.
How to watch the Winter Olympics in Germany
The 2026 Winter Olympics are taking place in northern Italy – and aim to provide the injection of winter cheer we all need right now. From how to watch to what to see, here’s our guide to the Games.
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10 things you should never do in Germany
Every country has its own unique cultural dos and don’ts. You won’t get a round of applause for remembering the dos, but you can get into seriously hot water for forgetting the don’ts. To help you out, here’s The Local’s guide to 10 things you should never do in Germany.
The digital health apps covered by public health insurance in Germany
Did you know that doctors in Germany can prescribe more than 50 digital health apps to support various conditions, from social anxiety and depression to back pain, diabetes and migraine prevention? We break down the top-rated apps.
Everything you need to know about Germany's famous Berlinale film festival
Looking for a hit of highbrow culture and glam to get you through the dismal winter? You're in luck: the Berlinale film festival is just around the corner. Here's what you should know about it and how to get tickets.
'Pig-cold': How to talk about the cold like a German
As temperatures stay low around Germany, many newcomers will be reminded of just how long and bitingly cold the winter can be here. Learning how to talk about the frigid weather like a native is one way to make the experience more bearable.
The organisations in Germany that are helpful for foreign residents
Whether you've just moved to Germany or have been settled here for years, knowing where to turn to for support is essential. Here are the organisations that can help you navigate the twists and turns of life in Germany.
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10 funny German medical words every expat should know
German is a tricky language to begin with, but things get really mind boggling when you need to see a doctor.
‘Schulpflicht’: What parents need to know about kids missing school in Germany
German regulations around school attendance for children are notoriously strict. Here's what parents need to know about when children can miss school – and when they can't.
Four places in Germany experts say you should visit in 2026
Several German destinations have been recommended by travel writers as being among the top places to visit in 2026. Here's our pick of the best, both for local residents and those coming from abroad.
The in demand jobs that make it easier to move to Germany
Germany publishes an official list of so‑called bottleneck jobs. If you’re trained in one of these fields, the process of securing a work permit or even permanent residency can be noticeably easier.
What are your rights in Germany if your flight is delayed or cancelled?
Whether it's bad weather, staff shortages or a strike action, we look at your rights if your air travel plans from Germany are disrupted.
CHECKLIST: What do I need to apply for German citizenship?
Residents who've lived in Germany for more than five years may be considering applying for citizenship. What documents do you need to apply?
What does public health insurance really cover at the dentist in Germany?
A recent proposal to exclude dental care from public health insurance coverage in Germany was met with significant backlash. But exactly how much does statutory insurance cover at the dentist anyway?
The German tax deadlines you need to know in 2026
The tax submission deadlines in Germany vary from year to year and depending on how you file. Here are the file-by dates to mark in your calendar this year.
Q&A: What are the rules in Germany for being late to work due to strikes?
When public transport strikes hit many commuters face serious challenges getting to work. So what are the rules in Germany around being late to work when the buses and trains are cancelled?
Where passengers in Germany are most affected by transport strikes on Monday
Public transport was severely disrupted across Germany on Monday as a large-scale warning strike brought buses, trams and underground lines in many regions to a halt. Here's where passengers are most affected.
What's on in Germany: Nine unmissable events this February
February in Germany offers a dazzling array of experiences. Whether you fancy floating through a surreal world of soap bubbles in Berlin or watching hot air balloons soar above snowy Alpine lakes, there's something to brighten every winter day.
LISTED: The new direct flights you can catch from Munich in 2026
New direct international flights are set to launch from Munich Airport this year, offering residents and visitors in Germany more options than ever for travel across Europe, the Middle East and beyond.
What German health insurance benefits can you get during pregnancy?
For anyone expecting a baby in Germany or wondering what support and services new parents are entitled to, here’s a straightforward guide to making the most of your statutory health insurance coverage.
All the free stuff I got for moving to Nuremberg
From a visit to the museum to a one-time bulky waste pickup, the city of Nuremberg welcomes new residents with an assortment of free experiences and services, and it's actually a brilliant idea, writes Paul Krantz.
What are the most commonly leaked passwords in Germany?
People in Germany, and across Europe, continue to rely on strings of numbers or the names of their favourite football teams as passwords, with potentially disastrous consequences.
Are children born to Brits in Europe now required to have a UK passport?
Children who are born outside the UK to at least one British parent are, in many cases, automatically entitled to British citizenship - but changes to the UK travel rules means that these children may now be required to get a UK passport to travel to Britain.