South Africans in Germany

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Life in Germany

Germany, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and innovation, stands as one of the most beloved countries in the world. From picturesque villages and bustling cities to its renowned efficiency and exceptional quality of life, Germany offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. Here are some of the top reasons why people love living in Germany.

Quality of Life

Germany consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices, thanks to its excellent healthcare system, robust economy, and strong social security. Residents enjoy a high standard of living, characterized by well-maintained infrastructure, clean cities, and a comprehensive public transportation system. The work-life balance is also commendable, with ample vacation days and a strong emphasis on leisure and family time.

Stunning Natural Beauty

From the rugged Alps in the south to the serene beaches along the Baltic and North Seas, Germany boasts diverse natural landscapes. The Black Forest, Rhine Valley, and Bavarian Alps are just a few examples of the breathtaking scenery that residents and visitors alike can enjoy. These natural wonders offer a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and cycling.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Germany is steeped in history and culture. It is the birthplace of some of the world’s greatest philosophers, composers, and writers, such as Goethe, Beethoven, and Kant. The country is home to countless museums, galleries, and theatres, ensuring that there is always something to explore. Festivals such as Oktoberfest in Munich and the Christmas markets across the country add to the vibrant cultural tapestry.

Efficient Public Transportation

Germany’s public transportation system is renowned for its efficiency and reliability. The extensive network of trains, trams, and buses makes it easy to travel within cities and across the country. The Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national railway company, connects major cities and smaller towns, making travel both convenient and environmentally friendly.

Excellent Education System

Germany’s education system is highly respected globally. Public universities offer high-quality education with little to no tuition fees, even for international students. The country’s emphasis on research and development, coupled with its strong vocational training programs, prepares students well for the job market

Diverse Culinary Scene

German cuisine is much more than just sausages and beer, although both are delicious staples. Each region has its own culinary specialities, from the pretzels and Weißwurst of Bavaria to the fresh seafood of the northern coasts. Germany’s multicultural population means that you can find a wide array of international cuisines in most cities.

Strong Economy and Job Market

Germany boasts one of the strongest economies in the world, characterized by low unemployment rates and a high GDP. It is a global leader in industries such as automotive, engineering, and renewable energy. The country’s robust job market attracts professionals from around the world, offering numerous opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Commitment to Sustainability

Germany is a pioneer in environmental protection and sustainability. The country is a leader in renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power. Its citizens are also highly environmentally conscious, with widespread recycling programs and a strong emphasis on sustainable living.

Safety and Stability

Germany is known for its political stability and low crime rates, making it one of the safest countries to live in. The government’s effective policies and strong law enforcement contribute to a sense of security and well-being among residents.

Cosmopolitan Cities

Cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt are vibrant, cosmopolitan hubs that offer a blend of history, modernity, and multiculturalism. Berlin, in particular, is known for its dynamic arts scene, diverse population, and innovative spirit. Each city has its own unique character, providing a variety of lifestyles and experiences.

Opinions from our community

We asked members of our Facebook page what they loved about Germany. 

Our List

  • Feeling Safe
  • Quality of life
  • Easy access to the rest of Europe
  • Healthcare
  • Reliability of services
  • Availability of walking, hiking and biking trails
  • Competent Government
  • Job environment and security
  • Education and Study opportunities
  • Work-life balance
  • Freedom
  • Affordability of basic items
  • Infrastructure including roads and internet
  • Culture and tradition
  • Job opportunities
  • Festivals and outdoor events
  • Social/Unemployment and child support
  • Equality
  • Learn new languages
  • Food and beer

Information about Germany

Germany is a fascinating country with a rich history, culture, and modern innovation. For more information about Germany, here is a list of websites that you can visit:

Official Sites

Other websites (Sponsored sites, personal blogs)

Living in Germany offers a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Whether you are drawn by the promise of a high quality of life, the stunning landscapes, or the rich cultural experiences, Germany has something to offer everyone. It’s no wonder that people from around the globe find themselves falling in love with life in this remarkable country.

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Keeping in touch virtually

As an ex-pat, it is essential to keep in touch with family and friends from back home. We yearn for news and contact with loved ones,

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions by South Africans who are planning to move to Germany for work, study or other reasons. Moving to a

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Homepage of the Deutsche Rentenversicherung

Pensions in Germany

The German state pension scheme provides valuable resources and services to help you navigate retirement planning.

  • Foreign Language Support: Detailed information is available on their homepage for foreign languages.
  • Comprehensive German Resources: For those who understand German, their German site offers even more extensive details.
  • Online Services: To access their online services, ensure your residence card is activated for online use. This activation can usually be done at your local residents’ office (Bürgeramt).

For personalized assistance, you can also visit a local Deutsche Rentenversicherung office or contact their helpline.

How to apply for a Social Security number?

Your Social Security number is used as identification for health insurance (public), pension, long-term care, and unemployment insurance. 
You can get this number in different ways, depending on your situation.

  • Public Health Insurance – You receive your number automatically when you first sign-up for public health insurance in Germany. If you are on private health insurance, you need to request it manually at your local Rentenversicherung office.
  • Employer – your employer might offer to apply for a social security number for you through their payroll system
  • The German Pension Office – You can personally contact the Deutsche Rentenversicherung, either online or by visiting their offices 
  • Your Insurance Broker – As your broker for assistance

You can detailed information on the GRV Website(in German)

Your social security card (Sozialversicherungsausweis) is a very important document which you must keep safe. You will also need it when applying for social benefits e.g unemployment benefits

Statutory Pension / die gesetzliche Rentenversicherung (GRV)

The state scheme is financed by a payroll tax known as “social security contributions”.
Premiums are deducted by the employer, who normally pays half of the contribution.
Those currently paying into the system are funding the current pensioners.
Self-employed are allowed to contribute to the GRV.
If you have worked and paid contributions in Germany for over 60 months, you will receive a German pension after reaching the official German pensionable age.
In addition to the periods of contributory employment, many other periods are considered, including:

  • Child-rearing (until three years of age)
  • Child raising period (up until 10 years of age)
  • Schooling and university after the age of 17
  • Training periods
  • Times of illness and unemployment (Please register with the Arbeitsagentur if you are unemployed or looking for work as these will count towards the qualifying periods. Consider doing this as soon as you arrive in Germany and do not have employment yet, for example, spouses)
  • Times caring for relatives

 “You should clarify your account at an early stage in order to fill in any gaps such as times spent at school, college or university. Periods of occupational training, pregnancy (incl. Mutterschutz), when you were registered unfit for work or unemployed are also registered. After clarifying your account you will have a gap-free “curriculum vitae” in the German compulsory pension insurance system. The earlier you clarify your account, the more “precise” the results of your pension information will be and this forms the basis for your personal pension plan.”

If you worked in Germany for less than 60 months, you are entitled to a refund of your own contributions.
The company contributions are forfeited.
Early retirement is possible if you are willing to forgo a percentage of your GRV.

Pension Points

The amount of your pension is primarily based on your insured earnings through contributions.
These are converted into pension points. We will credit one pension point to your pension account if you have earned exactly the average income of all insured persons (currently 50,493 EUR) for one year. In addition, pension points can also be credited for certain periods in which no contributions were made (e.g., for vocational school education), or contributions were paid by the state, the employment agency, health insurance, or other institutions (e.g., for military or voluntary service, child-rearing, unemployment, and illness).
To calculate the amount of the pension, all pension points are added up and multiplied by the so-called current pension value. The current pension value is currently 39.32 EUR. (2025)
This means that one pension point currently corresponds to a monthly pension of 39.32 EUR.

Gaps (Lückenauskunft)

We recommend that you complete your insurance account as early as possible.
Only with a fully clarified insurance account can they consider all relevant insurance periods when calculating the pensions listed in your pension information. See information above about adding additional periods.

Company pension / betriebliche Altersvorsorge

In addition to the German state pension scheme (GRV), many employers offer voluntary company pension schemes (betriebliche Altersvorsorge) to enhance your retirement savings.

Key Features of Company Pension Schemes:

  • Employer Contributions: If your company provides a pension scheme, they typically contribute a portion of your savings, helping to grow your retirement fund.

  • Types of Schemes: There are five different company pension options available:

    1. Direct Grants (Direktzusage)
    2. Support Funds (Unterstützungskassen)
    3. Direct Insurance (Direktversicherung)
    4. Pension Companies (Pensionskassen)
    5. Pension Funds (Pensionsfonds)

  • Tax Benefits: Contributions to these schemes are tax-free up to a specific annual limit, providing immediate financial advantages.

What You Should Know:

Check with your employer to see if they offer a pension scheme and how it is structured. This additional support can significantly boost your retirement income.

Private Pension / private Altersvorsorge

Private pension schemes in Germany offer an additional way to save for retirement, providing flexibility and tailored solutions for different individual needs. These schemes are entirely privately funded and managed by the individual, making them independent of employer contributions or the state pension system.

Private Providers:

In addition to Riester and Rürup plans, many private pension providers offer a variety of options, including life insurance-based savings plans, investment-based pensions, and hybrid models. Choosing the right provider and scheme depends on your income, financial goals, and retirement needs.

A financial advisor with expertise in German pension products can help you navigate the options, ensuring you select a plan that aligns with your circumstances and maximizes potential benefits.

Riester Pension Scheme

  • Introduced in 2002, the Riester pension is designed to supplement your contributions to the German state pension scheme (GRV).
  • Eligibility: Only individuals actively contributing to the GRV or receiving state benefits like parental leave are eligible for this plan.

Rürup Pension Plan

  • Introduced in 2005, the Rürup plan is tailored for individuals not contributing to the GRV, such as freelancers, self-employed individuals, or high-income earners.
  • Features: Contributions are tax-deductible up to a specific annual limit, providing significant tax benefits. Unlike the Riester pension, there are no government subsidies.

Vocabulary

Social security card der sozialversicherungsausweis
Pension scheme die Rentenversicherung / die Altersvorsorge
Statutory pension scheme die gesetzliche Rentenversicherung
Private pension scheme die private Rentenversicherung
Pensioner der Rentner / die Rentnerin
Direct Grant die Direktzusage
Support Fund die Unterstützungskasse
Pension Company die Pensionskasse
Direct Insurance die Direktversicherung

Witwe(r) Rente/Pension for your dependents

The Deutsche Renteversicerung pays out a pension to your spouse and children in the event of your death and if certain conditions are met. For more information visit their website. This article is in English. It is important to note that they distinguish between Kleine and Große Rente.

References

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Medical

Health Insurance in Germany: A Guide for South Africans In Germany, everyone must have health insurance. This means when you move to Germany, this is

Sozialversicherung / Social Insurance

The following Social Insurances are payable in Germany when you are a full-time employee or trainee: Krankenvesicherung / Medical Insurance Plegeversicherung / Long Term care

Income Tax / Lohnsteuer

We receive a lot of questions about income tax declarations and where to get help, especially getting help in English.First I have to state that

Businesses listed on our website

We all miss familiar products we loved in South Africa.
Some of these you can buy here in Germany, and for some, you will have to find a suitable substitute. 

The following shops sell South African Food/Grocery items

Die Spens Eindhoven

Die Spens is the largest South African shop in the EU. With more than a 1500 products available from South Africa as well as products

A Taste of Opera

South African online wine shop in Berlin selling the finest wines at the best prices. Order as a gift or simply to enjoy yourself –

SA Food Store

We believe that our South African communities in Europe should have convenient and affordable access to all their favourite South African products, no matter where

Christys Küche

  Hi, I’m Christy, a South African living in Düsseldorf since 2018. Prior to leaving SA, I ran my own catering business. I also had

Sonja Kohlöffel – Gem Squash

Gem Squash tastes just like home Postal orders 6kg total cost for postage and packaging is 20€ Collections in either Ulm or Bad Waldsee cost

Outer Africa

Restaurant and shop Here you will find the best of what the amazing and intriguing continent of Africa has to offer – in particular from

Search our market place

You can use the search function on our Listings (Market place) page to search by name, product or location.  
Red espresso can be bought at http://de.redespresso.com/

South African wines

SA Wines can be bought in most shops like Rewe and Edeka. For bigger selections, buy online.

The following Wine shops are listed on our website

Die Spens Eindhoven

Die Spens is the largest South African shop in the EU. With more than a 1500 products available from South Africa as well as products

A Taste of Opera

South African online wine shop in Berlin selling the finest wines at the best prices. Order as a gift or simply to enjoy yourself –

Capewineland

Capewineland was taken over by us in March 2022 out of love and passion for South Africa. As a South African family in the Rhineland,

Schalkenbosch Weine

Our company Schalkenbosch Weinvertrieb GmbH & Co. KG is located at Reutlingen which is 30 km south of Stuttgart and 200 km west of Munich. With

The Blue Heron Wine Shop

The Blue Heron has just landed in your neighbourhood! Nested in the beautiful city of Munich, The Blue Heron Wine Shop offers an exclusive range

Intra Wine and Spirits

We offer an online shop as well as a tasting venue and Vinotek called Stellenbosch Open Wine and Spirits in Ingolstadt You will find a

Clothing, Home Decor and Gifts

We have a big selection of shops selling SA-branded items. Have a look under the clothing, Home decor and gifts categories on our Listings (Market place) page.

The following shops sell SA-branded items via 3rd party shops and are therefore not listed on our website.

  • Affikaap for hoodies, cute bumper stickers with wording like “Wil jy braai?”
  • Kiwistar for bumper stickers

British Shops

Many British shops sell products that we know and love, and they deliver in Germany.

Beauty products

Many of our favourite beauty products are not available in Germany.
Online shops like Flaconi, Hagel-shop and Douglas have a great beauty range if you look for alternatives. 
I have seen Bio-Oil in Rewe.
You can find Charlotte Rhys products (based in Cape Town) at Douglas.

The following products can be bought online:

  • Johson’s baby products
  • Savlon
  • Dettol – the Dettol brand is sold under the name Sagrotan, although the Dettol Antiseptic Liquid can only be found online
  • Germolene Antiseptic Cream
  • Annique

Product Substitutes

Product Substitutes

Most products we know in South Africa are available in Germany, but unfortunately not all of them. Here is a list of product substitutes  for some of them.  I you would like more information about where to buy South African products in Germany, see our Products we love page.

Your best option to legally watch South African products is to get a subscription to Showmax or Netflix. 

Showmax Unfortunately Showmax will only be available outside of South Africa until 1 December 2023. We will keep you updated if there are any alternatives
Netflix You might find some South African content

VPNs and  DStv

Although it is possible to watch DStv in Germany, it is not recommended.
Please read the warning below. If you have to use a VPN to watch something you can be pretty sure it was not licenced in Germany.

Watching sports

2025 Rugby Fixtures The 2025 Springboks rugby fixtures courtesy of Rugby365.com Six Nations The Six Nations can be viewed on More Than Sports TV The fixtures are listed on the Sixnationsrugby website Rugby Europe Championships The Rugby Europe championships will be broadcast on ProSieben Maxx, Joyn and ran.deInformation about the German Rugby team (some players with SA roots in the team) can be found on their

Television Licenses

Television Licence (der Rundfunkbeitrag/GEZ-Gebühr) The first thing you are likely to get in your new mailbox after registering at the Bürgeramt is a reminder to pay your TV & radio broadcasting fees. The 2024 fees are €18.36 per month and can be paid quarterly  (€55.08) or €220.32 per yearThe fee is mandatory.  Every household in Germany has to pay the fee even if you do not own

Warning!!

VPN’s are legal in Germany, but infringing on copyright and accessing content that should not be available can result in legal action. Copyrights are governed by GEMA – “The Gesellschaft für musikalische Aufführungs- und mechanische Vervielfältigungsrechte (GEMA; English: Society for musical performing and mechanical reproduction rights) is a government-mandated collecting society and performance rights organization based in Germany.”
This means if you want to watch a South African program but it has no license to air in Germany, and GEMA does not earn their fees, it would be considered illegal.

Info on the web

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Internet TV and mobile

Internet, mobile and television packages are usually sold as a bundle. Fibre is available in most big cities but not in remote towns.  Legal After registering

Radio Stations and Playlists

If you’re living in Germany and missing the sounds of home, tuning into a South African radio station is a great way to stay connected

Phoning Home

In today’s world most of us have apps that we use to chat with family back home. But not all our relatives, especially the older

We created a page for each month so you can find out what food is in season, what public holidays and festivals you can look forward to and information about the weather. 

If you want to read more about the weather conditions, check out our Weather in Germany page

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Winter in Germany

Discover everything you need to know about winter in Germany! From tips on staying warm to festive traditions and winter activities, make the most of the season.

Swimming in Germany

Swimming options Private swimming pools are not so popular in Germany, but there are good public swimming options available.Public swimming pools / Öffentliche Schimmbäder /

Weather in Germany

German Climate Germany’s climate is temperate and marine, with cold, cloudy winters and warm summers and in the south occasional warm föhn wind. The greater

May 2024

May brings longer days, warmer weather, and nature in full bloom across Germany. Parks and gardens burst with color, making it a great time for outdoor adventures, from hiking scenic trails to enjoying open-air cafés and beer gardens. The month kicks off with May Day (Maifeiertag), a public holiday filled

January

The holiday season is filled with excitement and joy, but once the festivities are over and the New Year begins January can feel a bit quiet and dull. Don’t let the winter blues get to you—this is the perfect time to recharge and embrace the cosiness of the season. Stay

March

Spring is finally here, but let’s not get overly excited, as temperatures will still take a few weeks to rise.Although the trees will only begin to bloom in  April, nature blesses us with the most beautiful flowers, like the cheerful Crocus, the elegant Narcissus and the stunning Tulips. These flowers can be seen

April

April in Germany is a beautiful month with the arrival of spring. The weather starts to warm up, trees and flowers begin to bloom, and outdoor cafes and beer gardens start to open up.It’s a great time to explore the country’s picturesque landscapes, visit local markets, and enjoy traditional spring

February

February in Germany brings a blend of cosy winter days and the excitement of pre-spring festivals. From vibrant Karneval parades filling the streets with colourful costumes and music, to scenic winter landscapes perfect for peaceful walks or snowy adventures, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in seasonal treats, enjoy the warmth

December

In December the main focus is on Christmas, and the Germans have many Christmas traditions to celebrate. Christmas markets are a very big part of these traditions. Meet up with friends at these beautifully decorated markets where you can buy delicious food, glühwein, handmade items and Christmas cards. Some markets are themed, such as the

November

As we move into the month of November in Germany, we are welcomed by the chilly winds of autumn, the picturesque landscapes with trees shedding their last leaves, and the upcoming festive season that promises to be a time of warmth and joy. With the days getting shorter and the

October 2024

October October in Germany often brings mild, sunny weather, known as a Goldener Oktober (Golden October). As the leaves change to vibrant shades of yellow, red, orange, and brown, it’s the perfect season to capture stunning nature photography. For wine enthusiasts, a drive along the German Wine Route offers a picturesque journey through the

September 2024

September in Germany is a truly enchanting time of year. As the leaves begin to transform into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, and the air takes on a crisp, refreshing quality, it’s a gentle reminder that summer is giving way to autumn. This transition brings a host of

August 2024

August For many, August is synonymous with holidays, especially in Europe, where it is the peak vacation season.If you’re still looking to snag a last-minute getaway, you might try browsing holiday deal websites like Secret Escapes and Last Minute. These websites offer a wide range of options to suit any

July 2024

July Most people in Germany take their summer holidays in either July, August or September.For most Germans, Spain is the number one summer holiday destination, with Mallorca being the most popular island to visit. Greece and Italy are also highly sought-after locations, with their beautiful beaches and rich history. Another great summer

June 2024

The beginning of Summer and the longest day of the year will be on 20 June. This is a special day that marks the peak of sunlight and is celebrated by many cultures around the world. In Berlin, the sun will rise at 04:43 and set at 21:33, giving us