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Life in Germany

If you plan to stay in Germany for longer than 3 months, you will need to register at your local Bürgeramt (Town office).
This is called a Meldepflicht and is compulsory. More about the law can be found in BMG (in German) or in English
It must be done within two weeks after moving into your residence. ” Anyone who moves into a residence shall register with the registration authorities within two weeks of moving in. (2) Anyone who moves out of a residence and does not move into another residence in Germany shall deregister with the registration authorities within two weeks of moving out. Deregistration shall be possible no more than one week before moving out; the population register shall be updated as of the moving-out date. “

Where do you register

As a rule, you must register at the registration authority (Meldebehörde) in your local town.  As an example, if you live in Oberaichen, which is part of Leinfelden-Echterdingen, which is part of the Stuttgart Stadkreis, you need to register at the Leinfelden office. 
You can use the Ortdienste website to find your local office. Click on the Bundesländer and zoom in from there.
Another website to use is Melderegister

You can also search online for Bürgeramt, Rathaus or Ortsdienste for your own town e.g. Rathaus Leinfelden. The personnel at these institutions are in my experience very helpful and you can contact them if you have any questions

Documents needed

  • Valid passport with your visa inside
  • Proof of residence  If you are renting, you must get a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung from your landlord or rental management company. The name and address of the landlord,  the names of all persons who are subject to registration, the address of the rental property and the moving-in date must be on this document.
  • Completed registration form. For most towns, this can be found online
  • Marriage certificate, if applicable

Change of address within Germany

This obligation to register also applies when you move to a new address within Germany. If you move within the same municipality, you must inform the registration office (Bürgeramt) in person.. This is called “Ummelden.  If you move to a new municipality you have to de-register (abmelden) at your previous address and register (anmelden) at your new address. You have to do it within two weeks of moving to your new address.

When moving to a new address, you must also inform the following authorities and institutions:

  •  Finanzamt – If the tax office changes as a result of your move, inform the new tax office of your new address and your tax number. If the same tax office remains responsible, it is sufficient if you state the change of address in the next tax return.
  • KFZ Zulassungsstelle (Vehicle Registration office) – As the owner of a motor vehicle, you must ensure that the vehicle registration documents are updated after the move. To do this, contact the responsible vehicle registration office. Don’t forget to inform your vehicle insurance company of the new address as well. You only need the seven-digit insurance confirmation code if you move to another city.
  • Banks, Utility companies, Insurance companies, German Pension Fund

Things to keep in mind

  • You must de-register (abmelden) when you leave Germany permanently
  • You will receive a bill for your television licence (Rundfunkbeitrag/GEZ) soon after registering.
  • Church tax (Kirchensteuer) is payable by default. If you do not want to pay church tax, you need to indicate it on your Anmeldeformular. You can also apply to stop paying afterwards. For that, you must go back in person to where you registered, and submit a declaration of resignation form (die Nieder­schrift der Austritts­erklärung). You pay a fee for this, the fee depend on the Federal State. The tax office is automatically informed of the change or the departure from the church.
  • Tip!! Ask them where you must apply for your German driver’s licence and if you need a First aid course for that

Vocabulary

Proof of residence die Wohnungsgeberbestätigung
Obligation to register die Meldepflicht
Administrative district das Stadtkreis
Registration certificate die Anmeldebescheinigung
Register Anmelden
Deregister Abmelden
Re-registration Ummelden
Citizens office die Bürgeramt

Related content

Permanent Residence

Permanent residence in Germany is called a Niederlassungserlaubnis and may be granted in the form of a Settlement permit or Permanent EC residence permit. Very important!!

German laws and regulations

Where to find information The Bundesamt für Justiz publishes the laws and regulations to a the Gesetze im internet website. The main site is in

The German School system is quite unique and distinguishes itself from the South African models in a number of ways

South AfricaGermany
School TermStarts in JanuaryStarts in September
School UniformcompulsoryPublic schools do not require school uniforms
Home SchoolingAllowedNot allowed, school attendance is compulsory
School FeesFees payable depending on income and schoolPublic schools are free of charge. Private schools charges fees
Primary SchoolGrade 1 to Grade 7
Compulsory from age 6		Grade 1 to Grade 4
Compulsory from age 6
Secondary SchoolGrade 8 to Grade 12. Compulsory up to Grade 10From Grade 5. See more info in the Secondary School section. Compulsory until the age of 15 for a Gymnasium, else 16 years

Types of schools

There are different types of schools to choose from in Germany. The main system is Public schooling, but if 

There are different types of schools to choose from in Germany. The German public school system is renowned for its comprehensive approach to education. Students from all backgrounds have access to free education. 
Other options are:

Finding a school

The local Bürgerampt should be able to provide you with information about schools in your region.  
For international schools, you can use the following links to search

Germany's education system

Article 7 of the Grundgesetz (Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany) states the following:

  1. The entire school system shall be under the supervision of the state.
  2. Parents and guardians shall have the right to decide whether children shall receive religious instruction.
  3. Religious instruction shall form part of the regular curriculum in state schools, with the exception of non-denominational schools. Without prejudice to the state’s right of supervision, religious instruction shall be given in accordance with the tenets of the religious community concerned. Teachers may not be obliged against their will to give religious instruction.
  4. The right to establish private schools shall be guaranteed. Private schools that serve as alternatives to state schools shall require the approval of the state and shall be subject to the laws of the Länder. Such approval shall be given when private schools are not inferior to the state schools in terms of their educational aims, their facilities or the professional training of their teaching staff and when segregation of pupils according to the means of their parents will not be encouraged thereby. Approval shall be withheld if the economic and legal position of the teaching staff is not adequately assured.
  5. A private elementary school shall be approved only if the education authority finds that it serves a special educational interest or if, on the application of parents or guardians, it is to be established as a denominational or interdenominational school or as a school based on a particular philosophy and no state elementary school of that type exists in the municipality.
  6. Preparatory schools shall remain abolished.
Education is primarily the responsibility of the individual Federal States (Bundesländer). Each state has its own Ministry of Education which are responsible for the education policies and legislation. This includes the curriculum and teacher qualification requirements.

The School Stages

 The German education system has 5 Stages.

EnglishGermanInformation
PreschoolKinderkrippen, KindergartenThis is optional.
The Landesjugendämper (Youth Welfare office) monitors children who are attending preschool.
Children are monitored but achievements are not assessed
Primary SchoolGrundschule
From 6 years of age
Grades 1 to 4		This is an obligatory stage. For most States the following applies: “When the school year begins, all children who have turned six by June 30 of the current calendar year are obliged to attend primary school. The same applies to children who have turned six by June 30 of the following calendar year and who have been registered by their legal guardians in elementary school.”
Children automatically advance to the 2nd grade
Children are graded from the 2nd grade.
A school report is called a Zeugnis
The grading system is from 1 (very good) to 6 (very poor)
Pupils do not receive any certificates after finishing this Stage
Secondary SchoolWeiterführende Schulen
Sekundarstufe 1 (lower level) or Sekundarstufe II (upper level)		This starts after the Primary stage and it comprises of a lower level (Sekundarstufe I) and upper level (Sekundarstufe II)
Sekundarstufe I are for pupils between the ages of 10 and 16 and includes grades 5 – 7 to 9 – 10
The subject matter is very general and is meant to prepare pupils for Sekundarstufe II
Sekundarstufe II are for pupils between the ages of 15 -16 or 18, who wants to qualify for university and already finished Sekundarstufe I
TertiaryHochschulausbildung, TeriärbildungUniversities, Technical univcersities, Educational colleges (Pädagogische Hochschulen) Universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen) Dual Studies (Berufsakademi) and Fachschulen
Further Education or continuing vocational trainingMasters, Ph.D.

The Secondary School Stage

In Germany, the schools system sorts children into educational paths very early on and children have to make their future education choices at a young age. One major decision that parents and students will face is choosing the right secondary school. This choice will have a significant impact on a student’s academic and career opportunities, as well as their personal and social development. In Germany, there are several types of secondary schools to consider, each with different focuses and strengths. It is important to research and understand the curriculum, graduation requirements, and admission processes for each school in order to make an informed decision.

Each type of school caters to students with different academic abilities and career aspirations. The German school system also places a strong emphasis on vocational education and training. This ensures that students who prefer hands-on learning have plenty of opportunities to further their careers.

A South African Grade 12 could be equal to a German Abitur, depending on your subjects and marks (Note) and possibly the Bundesland. At a minimum, it should be equivalent to a Realschulabschluss/mittlere Reife. 
To find out if your South African qualification allows you to study at a German University, enter your details on the Anabin Website

EnglishGermanInformation
General schoolHauptschule (secondary general school for grades 5 through 9 or 10)
A secondary school in Germany and Austria, starting after 4 years of elementary schooling, which offers Lower Secondary Education (Level 2) according to the International Standard Classification of Education
Students are eligible for vocational training afterwards, or can transfer to the Sekundarstufe II/Oberstufe at a Gymnasium or Gesamtschule.
Pupils receive a Hauptschulabschluss certificate upon completion
General School – PracticalRealschule (practical secondary school for grades 5 through 10)
Students are eligible for vocational training afterwards, or can transfer to the Sekundarstufe II/Oberstufe at a Gymnasium or Gesamtschule. Another option is a FOS (Fachoberschule) There they can complete grades 11,12 and 13.
You can enroll for Engineering at a Hochschule (University of Applied sciences) with FOS and Grade 12
Pupils receive a Realschulabschluss certificate upon completion
General School – AcademicGymnasium (academic secondary school for grades 5 through 12 or 13)Students receive an Abitur after successful completion and it entitles them to go to a University. Some degrees like Engineering, require up to grade 13.
Students can also opt to do vocational training.
General School – ComprehensiveGesamtschule (comprehensive school for grades 5 through 12 or 13)
Combines the Hauptschule, Realschule and Gymnasium and offers an alternative to the tripartite school system
Technical College (Vocational School)Fachoberschule (FOS)Pupils receive a graduation certificate or Mittlerer Schulabschluss meaning they will have a Fachhochschulreife.
If the school offers grade 13, pupils will receive an Abitur or Fachgebundene Hochschulreife
Vocational GymnasiumBerufliches GymnasiumOffers 3 years of classes and pupils receive an Abitur upon completion

Pupils are graded based on 6 marks:

  1. very good
  2. good
  3. satisfactory level
  4. adequate
  5. poor
  6. very poor.

Fun Facts

  • On a child’s first day of school, they take along “Schultüte”, which is a decorated paper cone filled with sweets and small presents
  • Depending on the Federal State, most children start school in August/September of the year that they turn 6 years old
  •  For young school children, having a trendy backpack is more important than the clothes they wear
  • Every student is obliged to attend classes and other school events. You therefore cannot take your child out of school before the term ends. They must attend school for the whole term, with only certain exemptions like ill health, participation in sports competitions, or an important personal reason like the marriage of siblings, death in the family or serious illness in the family. Under certain circumstances, you can apply for special leave (Beurlaubung), for example, to return to your country of origin for a special event
  • School hours start between 7:30 and 8:15 a.m. and can end between 12 noon and 1:30 p.m
  • School marks are called “die Noten”
  • A School hour is usually 45 minutes long
  • Sports are played at private facilities and schools do not have sports fields
  • At the end of an Abitur, most schools have Abiball which is like a Matric farewell

Information on the Web

Related content

Recognition of studies

Depending on the situation, it might be necessary to have either your Matric/Grade 12 or South African degree or other qualifications and experience formally recognised

The German Vocational Training System

An Ausbildung is a form of vocational training or apprenticeship where a student attends school and works simultaneously. The student gains both theoretical and practical

Travel during a school Term

The school rules in Germany are very strict and every student is obliged to attend classes and other school events. You therefore cannot take your

Study in Germany

Types of learning institutions Hochschule is the name for higher education. Under this, you can get the following institutions.  Fachhochschule – University of applied sciences. 

Are you looking for services like cleaning, someone to look after the kids or help out with the gardening?
The sites we list here are currently only available in German.
You have the option to hire someone on a more permanent basis (minijob) or use a company to supply the services as needed.
Please be aware of your responsibilities when you hire someone directly especially in the event of accidents or damage to property. Social taxes might also be applicable.

Minijob zentrale

According to the Bundesagentur für Arbeit, mini jobs are minor jobs with a maximum monthly pay of €450 or a maximum of 70 days work per calendar year.
The Minijob zentrale has information about the legal issues.
You can also search for services or register yourself for services

Betreut

A very nice website to search for services is Betreut.
They offer the following services:

  • Kinderbetreuung (Child care)
  • Au Pair
  • Nachhilfe (Tutoring)
  • Seniorenbetreuung (Care of the eldery)
  • Tierbetreuung (Pet sitting)
  • Haus & Garten ( Home and garden)

Studenten Vermittlung

Looking for a student to help you move your furniture?
You can find that and more on studenten-vermittlung

Artisans

Looking for someone to help with the plumbing or fix a cupboard or any other type of Artisan?
Try my-hammer

Kinderbetreuung/Au Pair

If you are looking for someone to help your children with school work or look after them when you go on a date, you can find services on the Betreut website. 
To find a full-time Au Pair, search on Aupairworld  Facebook groups like Au Pair in Europe.
You can also look in your local newspaper or online community groups

Cleaning Services

Agents for self-employed cleaning staff or cleaning companies
Providers with employed cleaning staff or commissioned cleaning companies

Vocabulary

Cleaner die putzhilfe
Childcare die Kinderbetreuung
Eldery care die Seniorenbetreuung
Private tuition die Nachhilfe
Animal care or pet sitters die Tierbetreuung

Related content

Waste disposal and recycling

This is a general guide to waste disposal and recycling. Some rules may differ from town to town, for example, the collection of bulky waste,

Gardening Rules

Did you know your garden and the local green spaces are living habitats for wildlife and insects?If you cut back or trim your plants too

Pets

Dangerous (Banned) Dogs Some dog breeds are banned in Germany. There are additional rules for individual states.  Up-to-date information can be found on the Zoll

Bringing your fur babies to a new country can be a daunting and emotional experience.
The first thing you need to acquaint yourself with is the rules for bringing pets from South Africa to Germany.
These rules are updated regularly and we therefore only add links to the relevant pages. 
We added some links to Pet immigration services that were recommended by fellow South Africans, and if you would rather do it yourself, we have a page where people shared their do-it-yourself experiences.

Dangerous (Banned) Dogs

Some dog breeds are banned in Germany. There are additional rules for individual states. 
Up-to-date information can be found on the Zoll (Customs) website.
Some dangerous dog breeds are allowed, depending on the Federal state, and must be registered at the Ordnungsamt.

Qualzuchten (Torture Breeds)

Section 11b of the German Animal Welfare Act [1] prohibits breeding animals with characteristics that cause them to suffer – but so far there are no guidelines on how these should be defined. For this reason, torture breeding is still widespread.  Examples are English Bulldogs, “Teacup dogs”, Sphinx cats

A list of breeds can be found on the PETA website

Cats

Cats have a different status in Germany than dogs, and there are fewer regulations regarding cats once you are in Germany. Here are some examples relevant to cats:

  • You do not need to confine your cat to your property and they can roam freely,
  • You also do not need to attach your cat to a leash. 
  • Although you do not need to microchip your cat if you buy it in Germany, it is still advisable to do so.
  • There are no taxes payable on cats
  • Neutering – Most Federal states are now requiring your to have your cat neutered. Find out more from your local municipality 

Resources on the web

Customs Info

  • Zoll – German Customs, provisions on the import of pet animals
  • Zoll –  Dangerous dogs
  • BMEL – Rules on entering the European Union (EU) with dogs, cats and ferrets

Pet Immigration or transport services

The following companies are suggestions from fellow South Africans 

Shared experiences and doing it yourself

Pets – Personal stories

Here are some shared experiences by our Facebook members.  If you would like to add your experience to our website, please submit it via our contact form

Registration, taxes and permits

  • In most states, dogs must be added to the dog registry (Hunderegister) in your area. Search for example “Hunderegister Hamburg”. Please note, not all States (Bundesländer) require you to regsiter your animal. In order to register the dog, the animal needs to be chipped and covered by liability insurance.
  • Dogs must be registered for dog tax /Hundesteuer.  You can register for the taxes at the Bürgeamt.  See for example the information from Stuttgart or Berlin.  Depending on where you live the registration can be done online.
  • Dangerous breeds – If your dog falls in the dangerous breed, you must register it at the Ordnungsamt

Identification badge, chip and handler licence

As mentioned before, the rules and regulations can differ per federal state. Most states require dogs to have an identification badge and a chip.  When you take your dog for a walk, the dog’s name, your address and the dog tax disc must be on the dog’s collar.  
You might also be required to get a licence to prove you can handle your dog (Hundeführerschein)
Information about the Hunderegister can be found on the Hundeinfoportal

Rules and regulation for owning a pet

Rules and regulations can be found on the Gezetze im Internet Dog regulations.
Not all federal states have a rule that you need to pick up your dog’s poo, but this is just basic decency, especially if you take your dog walking. You can buy special poop bags for that, and most parks have special bins to dispose of the bags.

Pet Insurance

Agila and Allianz offer pet insurance (Hundehaftpflichtversicherung).
Dog insurance is mandatory in some federal states. It is not medical insurance for your pet, but it covers you if your dog harms another dog, person or property. 

Adopting a pet at a "Tierheim"

Apps

Pet sitting and kennels

For pet sitting look at the Pawshake app, or on the Hundelieb website
You can also find other possibilities on our Minijob page
For cats, search for Katzenpension in your area, or consider a house sitter, another option is to search for a catsitter on Catinaflat

Below are some South African pet sitters who lives in Germany and would love to spend some time with your fur babies.

 

Pet sitting by Carmen

Area: Carmen lives in Berlin and has a house with a very large garden.  They have a 10-year-old, female Puggle/Jack Russel mix, a 10-year-old cat

Pet sitting by Pamela

Area: Pamela lives in Düsseldorf and is willing to have pets stay over by her at home and also stay out at the pet owner’s

Pet Sitting by Natalie

Area: Natalie lives in Senden, close to Neu-Ulm, and can do pet sitting in the surrounding areas Types of Pets Cats, Dogs, birds and fish

Pet Sitting by Desdemona

Area: Desdemona lives in Ulm, and can do pet sitting in the surrounding areas Types of Pets Cats, Dogs, birds and fish Fees For the

Raw food for pets

Try the following websites:

Death of a pet

There are some restrictions on burying or cremating a pet in Germany. Things you need to keep in mind:

  • The TierKBG (Tierkörperbeseitigungsgesetz Gesetz über die Beseitigung von Tierkörpern, Tierkörperteilen und tierischen Erzeugnissen) governs the rules and regulations for disposing of animals
  • Some Federal states have stricter rules and regulations. Always make sure what is allowed for where you live. Below are some general rules, but could be different for the state you live in.
  • If you would like to bury a small animal in your garden, you can only do so if you are the owner of the property, or get permission from the owner. The animal must be buried at least 50cm deep and not close to public roads ( at least two meters away).
  •  Burial in a garden is not allowed if it is in a water conservation area, and also not if the animal died from a notifiable disease.
  •  You may not bury an animal on public grounds or in a park or forest.
  • You can bury your pet in a Tierfriedhof, or have them cremated.
  • If the animal died at the Vet, they can assist with cremation or disposal.

Animal welfare

You can report any issues regarding animal cruelty at the Tierschutsbund under Tierquälerei

Resources on the web

Related content

What can I bring into Germany

It is very tempting to bring some South African goodies with you when you travel to Germany, and while most items are allowed, there are Restrictions.

Finding a place to stay

Finding a place to rent is almost like doing a job interview. You have to “advertise” yourself and you will have to go for interviews.

Finding a place to rent is almost like doing a job interview. You have to “advertise” yourself and you will have to go for interviews.
The best is to go prepared!  You will need at least the following documents:

  • A Schufa report (credit report),
  • proof of employment,
  • bank statements and
  • a motivation letter if you like.
    In this you introduce yourself .. how big is the family, do you have pets, do you have parties every Wednesday, do you smoke, where you work, etc. A tip from others, also add proof of insurance , for example pet insurance if you have pets, or personal liability insurance. You also add a reference letter from your employer. 

When you are not yet sure what type of place you want to get or exactly where, consider making use of Airbnb for a couple of months.

It also helps while you are waiting for your furniture to arrive in Germany.
You can read more about moving to Germany on this page,  there you can find a list of the cost of living comparison sites that might help you in your decision process.

Schufa

A “Schufa” is a credit report. It is a bit of a chicken-egg situation. You cannot get a Schufa unless you already life in Germany.  
To get around this you can stay in an Airbnb for a couple of months and then get a Schufa, or say upfront that you don’t have one yet, or look for properties that do not require one. If you have a employment contract, you can also ask if they will accept that.
Simple Germany has a good guide on getting a Schufa

Cost of Living

In general, properties are more expensive in Germany than in South Africa, also when renting. Food and clothing prices depend a lot on where you are buying. Medical insurance is also more expensive in Germany,
The most, expensive cities in Germany with regard to rent are Stuttgart, Hamburg and Munich
Here are some cost-of-living comparative sites to give you an idea:

More information on the internet

Immowelt.de – a really good source of current information from types of housing, to disputes with neighbours. Available in German

Where to look for Accommodation

Rental agencies

Apps

Other

  • Immowelt
  • ImmoScout24
  • WG.Gesucht.de
  • Meinestadt.de
  • Your local paper
  • eBay
  • Facebook sometimes has listings in an area
  • Relocation agents such as Swift Relocation

Furnished short term rentals

Shared accomodation

Buy or Rent

To buy or rent is a personal choice. Just be aware of the possible hidden costs of ownership.
There was a case recently where owners were charged for fixing the road in front of their properties.
Interest rates are pretty low. Deposits are high.
Simple Germany has a good article on this

Typical property description

“3-Zimmer Wohnung

Die Wohnung bietet eine Wohnfläche von ca. 116,56 m². Diese Fläche verteilt
sich auf den Flur, zwei Schlafzimmer, das Wohnzimmer, das hell geflieste Vollbad, das WC und die Wohnküche.
Die Küche wir nur mit einem Herd und einer Spüle ausgestattet.”

Important

  • When you are looking at a property with “3 Zimmer” it does not refer to bedrooms but the total rooms excluding the Kitchen and Bathroom.
  • Many properties will have no lights installed, only the fittings. You have to get them fitted or fit them yourself. A good place to look for artisans is My-Hammer
  • Make sure you know what your responsibilities will be for example are you responsible for keeping the pathway clear from snow or for cleaning the staircase (Treppenhaus). In BW you might be responsible for cleaning during your Kehrworche
  • Living space – Living space can be calculated according to 3 methods.  Only in the case of subsidized housing is a method prescribed by the Housing Subsidy Act
    • The DIN-277 standard. The floor space (Grundfläche) and living space (Wohnfläche) are the same. The height of the room is irrelevant. Roof areas, balconies, basements and garages are included. 
    • The Second Calculation Ordinance (II. BV), only up till 31.12.2003
    • Living space ordinance (WoFlV – as of 01.01.2004) In disputes the court follows this method. It evaluates the part of the floor space that can be used for living. It is not the same as the Grundfläche(floor space) method- 
      Rooms with sloping ceilings can only partially be taken into account. Cellars, laundry rooms, heating rooms and garages do not count towards the living space. Chimneys, pillars and columns do not count towards living space if they are higher than 1.50 meters and have a floor area of more than 0.1 square metres.
  • Be careful of photos, it could for example be taken with the kitchen fitted but if it doesn’t say a kitchen is included (Einbauküche or EBK), it is not.
  • It is possible to lease your furniture,  Lyght Living and In-lease offers such services

Vocabulary and Info

die Wohnung This could mean accommodation but mostly it means an apartment or flat
 das Mietvertrag  Rental contract
Immobilienmakler Estate agent, realtor
Vertrag kündigen Cancel your contract
das Vermieter Landlord
das Mieter Tenant
Wohnen auf Zeit Temporary living option. Usually only for a couple of months.
Most will be furnished
die Wohngemeinschft Shared accommodation.
Popular with young people
die Garage / das Stellplatz Garage or parking space
das Grundstück Land or plot
die Warmmiete Rent with utilities (die Nebenkosten) like heating included.
Always refer to your rental contract
die Kaltmiete Rent without utilities (die Nebenkosten) like heating included.
Always refer to your rental contract
   
die Kaution Deposit. By law it may not be more than 3 times the “Kalt Miete”. To get your deposit back can take up to a year.
die Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung a certificate from your previous landlord to show
that you have no outstanding rent
Einkommensnahcweis Proof of income
das Deutscher Mieterbund German tenants association
das Wohnberechtigunsschein (WBS) Certificate to prove that the tenant is entitled to move into subsidized housing. If an apartment is advertised as WBS, only those with such a certificate can apply.
die Nebenkosten

Additional charges for utilities and services like heating, hot water, trash collection etc. 
This is usually a fixed amount (for the year) and at the end of the year you will receive a Betriebskostenabrechnung, which is a statement of how much you paid and how much you actually used.
If you used less than what you paid you will get money back.
Electricity (der Strom) is usually not included in the Nebenkosten, it will depend on your rental contract so make sure about it.

Internet and Television can be included but most times it is not.

A very good site for more information (in German) is Ratgeber.immowelt
der Strom Electricity (der Strom) is usually not included in the Nebenkosten, unless specified in your rental contract. 
If it is not included, you will have to sign a contract with a electricity provider.
You can use websites like Verivox and Check24 to make a comparison. You are also allowed to switch between providers.

Related content

Housing in Germany

Types of Housing Flat – Wohnung / Apartment. Atlbauwohnung – An old building, that might be protected Dachgeschosswohnung – penthouse but usually with slanted walls

Beds, Mattresses and Duvets

The sleeping arrangements in Germany is a bit different from what we are used to in South Africa. The average German couple sleeps on a

Minijobs and hired help

Are you looking for services like cleaning, someone to look after the kids or help out with the gardening?The sites we list here are currently