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South Africans in Germany

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Life in Germany

The most important topics for daily life in Germany

Seasons and Events

We took the time to carefully craft individual pages for every single month of the year. On these pages, you will find an abundance of knowledge regarding what is currently in season, the exciting public holidays and festivals to look forward to, as well as valuable information about the weather.

Germany month by month

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

House and Home

If you are looking for a place to rent, have a look at the information on our page relating to Schufa, types of housing and where to look for accommodation.

Housing in Germany

Types of Housing Wohnung / Apartment/Flat. Standard residential unit, typically part of a larger building. Atlbauwohnung – An old building, that might be protected.  An older, often pre-war building with high ceilings and potentially historic features. Dachgeschosswohnung – Attic or penthouse apartment, often with sloped

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. The best is to go prepared!  You will need at least the following documents: A Schufa report (credit report), proof

Schools and Studies

Enroll at a University or Hochschule (Technical University). 

Schools and Studies

General school information Take note that Home Schooling is not allowed. German Vocational training Interested in doing Vocational Training (Ausbildung) in Germany?Germany is one of the best providers of Vocational Training. German Vocational training All the information you need to know about finding and enrolling

Finance

Income Tax, pensions, SARS, Social Insurance, Forex and Financial planning

Finance

The most important financial topics for daily life in Germany Income Tax Information about taxes and where to find assistance Pensions How does the German state pensions work, what can you do to supplement your pension Foreign Exchange- ZAR to EUR Foreign exchange rules to buy Euros with South African Rands SARS Income Tax in South Africa SARS Tax Residence in South Africa Social Insurance Health and long-term care insurance Financial planning How to find

Driving

Also see our Entrepreneurs Corner Forum 

Freelancing in Germany

You can set up your own business in two ways, one is to work as a freelancer or as a self-employed entrepreneur (Gewerbe).  If you want to work as a freelancer in Germany, you will need to apply for a Residence permit for the purpose of freelance employment.

Shopping

Also see our Entrepreneurs Corner Forum 

Freelancing in Germany

You can set up your own business in two ways, one is to work as a freelancer or as a self-employed entrepreneur (Gewerbe).  If you want to work as a freelancer in Germany, you will need to apply for a Residence permit for the purpose of freelance employment.

Sport

Also see our Entrepreneurs Corner Forum 

Freelancing in Germany

You can set up your own business in two ways, one is to work as a freelancer or as a self-employed entrepreneur (Gewerbe).  If you want to work as a freelancer in Germany, you will need to apply for a Residence permit for the purpose of freelance employment.

What we love about Germany

We conducted a survey on our Facebook page to inquire about the things that people adore about Germany.

What we love about 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

Local Town Offices

Once you have established a residence in Germany, it is imperative that you promptly register at your local Bürgeramt. This is a critical step in becoming fully integrated into your new community and ensuring that you are in compliance with all relevant government regulations. Don’t delay – make sure to take care of this important task as soon as possible.

Registering at the Local Town Office

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

Health

We added some links about medical aid

Legal Matters

Information about the following topics:  German laws and regulations, Police Clearance Certificates, Estate planning, Funerals, Television licenses, Downloading Music and Movies, and Legalising Documents

Legalities

German Laws and Regulations Where to find information about the laws in Germany. How to report a crime and emergency numbers Estate planning Wills and Testaments Television Licenses Paying your television licence,

Useful Apps

Here are some helpful apps that can simplify your everyday life in Germany.

Useful apps

Having the correct information available when you need it is priceless.  Here are some apps that can make your life easier in Germany. Note for most we did not add links to the apps, as it is a lot of work to maintain for all operating systems. Use the search function to search the apps Integration Integreat app – Digital Integration platform Arrive App from the Bundesagentur für Arbeit Residence card Ausweisapp2 – Use it to

Entertainment

Movies, Internet, Mobile and Television

Entertainment

Menu Item The most important topics for daily life in Germany Internet, TV and Mobile Internet and mobile providers. TV Channels Going to the movies What you need to know about going to the movies in Germany

Outdoors

People from 3rd world countries can apply to do volun

Outdoors

Most South Africans love being outdoors. This can sometimes feel like a challenge in Germany, where the weather can be unpredictable and often requires a variety of warm, waterproof, and wind-resistant clothing. However, I have learned very quickly that you need to embrace all kinds of weather conditions to truly experience life in Germany.Most Germans will tell you that there is no

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