Raising a family in Germany can be a wonderful experience, but with any new adventure, it’s important to be aware of the cultural, legal, financial, and emotional differences you may encounter. Although there are similarities between raising a family in Germany and South Africa, there’s no doubt that you will face new challenges and opportunities that come with living in a new country. You may find that the German education system, housing policies, and healthcare system differ from what you’re accustomed to and it’s important to educate yourself on these differences before making the journey. Additionally, navigating the legal and financial systems can be challenging even for native Germans, let alone someone new to the country. Therefore, it’s essential to do your research and seek out support to make the transition smoother for you and your family. Remember, this is an exciting chapter in your lives, and with the right preparation, it can be a rewarding and enriching experience for all.
Having a baby in Germany.
Having a baby in Germany can be a very fulfilling experience for parents-to-be. The country is known for its excellent healthcare system, which provides quality care for both mother and baby. Maternity and paternity leave are also very generous, allowing parents to bond with their child for an extended period of time. Furthermore, there are numerous resources available to new parents, such as support groups and classes, that can help ease the transition into parenthood. Additionally, Germany has a strong emphasis on family values, making it a welcoming place for families with children. From top-notch medical care to a supportive community, having a baby in Germany can be a wonderful journey for those who embark upon it.
Registering your child at birth – Germany
Registering your child at birth – Germany Welcoming a baby in Germany is a beautiful experience, but it comes with a few bureaucratic hoops to jump through. It is important to understand the process of registering your child, applying for documents, and making sure your little one is travel-ready if you’re planning to visit South Africa. This guide is tailored specifically for South African parents living in Germany. General Information Your newborn must be registered at the local registry office (Standesamt) within seven days of birth. This registration is essential to receive an official birth certificate and a tax identification number (Steuer-ID) — yes, even newborns get one in Germany! Once the Geburtsurkunde (birth certificate) is issued, you can proceed to apply for Kindergeld (child benefit) and a passport for your child. From the Standesampt Stuttgart: “Die Geburt Ihres Kindes müssen Sie innerhalb einer Woche beim Standesamt des Geburtsortes anmelden. Dafür benötigen Sie eine vollständig ausgefüllte Geburtsanzeige, in der Sie u.a. die Vornamen für Ihr Kind festlegen.Schriftliche Anzeige bei Geburt in einer KlinikBei der Geburt eines Kindes in einem Krankenhaus oder in einer sonstigen Einrichtung, in der Geburtshilfe geleistet wird, meldet der Träger der Einrichtung die Geburt direkt beim Standesamt.Mündliche Anzeige bei einer HausgeburtBei einer Hausgeburt muss die Geburt von der Mutter, dem Vater oder jeder anderen Person, die bei der Geburt dabei war, im Standesamt angezeigt werden.Das Standesamt teilt die Geburt des Kindes nach deren Beurkundung dem Bürgerbüro am Wohnsitz der Eltern mit. Das Bürgerbüro informiert das Finanzamt. Die Eltern erhalten dann automatisch vom Bundeszentralamt für Steuern die Steuer‐ID des Kindes zugesandt.” Summary (in plain English) You must register your child’s birth with the registry office in the place of birth — not where you live — within one week. You’ll need to submit a completed Geburtsanzeige (birth notification form), where you declare your child’s name(s). If your baby is born in a hospital, the hospital will typically send the birth information directly to the Standesamt. If it’s a home birth, the mother, father, or any witness must report the birth in person to the Standesamt. After the registration is complete, the Bürgerbüro (citizens’ office) at your home address is informed automatically. The Bürgerbüro then informs the Finanzamt, and you’ll receive your child’s tax ID by post from the Bundeszentralamt für Steuern (Federal Central Tax Office). 🗺️ Important: You must register your baby in the Bundesland (federal state) where the birth took place, not necessarily the one where you live. For example, if you live in Baden-Württemberg but your baby is born in Bavaria, the birth must be registered in Bavaria. Naming your child There are rules and regulations on naming your child. First of all, it depends on your marital status, and then the name itself.The most confusing law is that it must be gender clear, so it has to indicate whether it is a boy or a girl. There have been some changes to this law, and names can now be gender-neutral, with the additional paperwork, of course. All names must be approved by the Standesamt. In Baden-Württemberg, the following rules apply. This might be different for your Bundesland, so always make sure. You have the following options for naming: First namesIf both parents have custody, they can jointly determine the first name of their child.If only one parent has custody, they can choose their first name. You can determine the first name yourself.Names are not allowed which, by their nature, are not first names or that negatively affect the best interests of the child.Surnames, objects or products as a First name are also not allowed. SurnameWhen determining the surname of your child (also known as the maiden name), you must consider the following: If you are married to each other and have a married name. The child then receives your married name as the maiden name. If you are married to each other but do not have a married name. You can then choose either the surname of the mother or the father as the child’s maiden name.This provision then also applies to all other children. If you are not married to each other and one parent has sole custody of the child. Then the child receives their family name. As the parent with custody, you can also give the child the surname of the other parent. But this is only possible with their consent. If you are not married to each other but have joint custody. Then you can choose either the family name of the mother or the father for the child’s maiden name. From one of our Facebook Members:“We have chosen an Afrikaans girl’s name, which is apparently seen as a gender neutral name in Germany.We had to get the name ‘Beurkundigt’. We have also been told that either we need to give a second name which identifies the gender or we need to sign a document (Erklärung zum Vornamen eines Kindes) stating that we are aware we are giving our child a gender neutral name.FYI, it is very much a girl’s name in SA, but as with the name Yolandi, apparently it is gender neutral here. So, something one might want to get out of the way and discuss with the Standesamt before the 7-day registration.” What Happens After the Birth? (Timeline: Day 1–7 after birth) 🏥 If You Gave Birth in a Hospital The hospital will issue a Geburtsbescheinigung (birth certificate for registration purposes). They often assist with submitting documents to the local Standesamt (registry office). This should be done within one week of birth. 🏡 If You Had a Home Birth You must report the birth to the Standesamt yourself. You’ll need the midwife’s documentation and proof of identity of both parents. In some cases, a doctor’s confirmation may also be required. Registering the Birth (Geburtsanzeige) Timeline: Within 7 days at the local Standesamt You might need the following: confirm this with the relevant Standesamt Valid passports of both parents (and residence permits if applicable) Unabridged Marriage certificate (translated and apostilled if not
Having a baby in Germany
Having a baby in Germany Thinking of starting or expanding your family in Germany? Luckily, the standard of German healthcare is very high, and Germany has great maternity and paternity benefits. Still, there are some differences between having a baby in Germany versus giving birth in South Africa that are good to be aware of upfront. Below gives an overview of what to expect for parents-to-be and what the process is. Health insurance The first step for any expectant mother should be to make sure that you are covered by German health insurance. Public health insurance provides comprehensive coverage for expectant mothers, everything from check-ups to childbirth. If you have private health insurance, you should check with your provider to see what is covered. Prenatal care in Germany (Schwangerschaftsvorsorge) If you discover you’re pregnant, your first step should be to make an appointment with your gynaecologist (Frauenarzt). This appointment normally takes place around eight weeks after conception. If you are employed, you can request a confirmation of pregnancy (Schwangerschaftsbestätigung) to present to your employer. You should tell your boss about your pregnancy not later than three months after it is verified, so that he/she has enough time to find a substitute for you. Once you notify your employer of your pregnancy, your Maternity Protection kicks in. At this point, your gynaecologist will also give you a document called a Mutterpass (mother’s passport). In the Mutterpass the doctor will note everything from your future appointments, tests, health information and due date, so you need to bring this document to any future appointments as well as to the hospital when you give birth. After this, you will attend 12 regular check-up appointments: one every four weeks until week 32 and then every two weeks thereafter. (more if you have a complicated pregnancy or become overdue, in which case the doctor might want to see you every second day.) . In addition to the normal scans, which take place at nearly every gynaecologist visit, most people get an anatomy ultrasound (Feindiagnostik) or 3D scan. Your doctor should recommend a specialist around the 25th week for this. You will receive a referral and can usually make an appointment fairly quickly. This scan is a fascinating chance to see your baby in the flesh and diagnose serious issues. Near the end of the pregnancy, CTG (electronic fetal monitor, EFM) scans will be added. These external monitors measure Braxton-Hicks contractions and heart rate and take about an hour. If you are employed, your employer is obliged to give you time off to attend these appointments. Routine care usually includes: Ultrasounds Urine analysis Blood pressure checks Weigh-ins Blood tests Pelvic exams Pregnant women in Germany also have the option of having a possible chromosomal disorder in their baby diagnosed via a non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT). For a NIPT, a blood sample from the pregnant woman is examined. Currently, it is being debated in parliament whether your health insurance should cover this test, but at the time of writing this, you have to pay for it yourself. A Schwangerschaftsdiabetes test (for gestational diabetes) is administered between 24 and 28 weeks. Though this only affects between 2 to 14 per cent of pregnant women, it can significantly complicate a pregnancy. The glucose tolerance test is simple. After some light fasting, you must drink a syrupy mixture (50g glucose in 200 ml water), and after an hour, a blood sample is taken to check your blood sugar level and see if your body has processed it appropriately. If the reading is too high (which happens 15 to 23 per cent of the time), a similar three-hour test is administered. Most women don’t turn out to have gestational diabetes. And even if you do, it is simply a matter of management, with most babies unaffected and the condition disappearing soon after birth. You will also be offered 2 toxoplasmosis tests during your pregnancy which currently is not covered by statutory health insurance. Helpful links: Pregnancy scans in Germany Struggling to fall pregnant. Struggling to fall pregnant and you have been trying for a year? If you are younger than 35, the costs for the investigations of the causes for your infertility will be covered 100 % by your health insurance. If you are above 35, then the time you have had to try to conceive naturally gets reduced to 6 months. There after what your health insurance covers for the actual treatment depends on the treatment, your marital status and the type of insurance you have.Read more on fertility treatment and cost here. Choosing a hospital In Germany, you have three options for giving birth: In a hospital At a birthing house At home Some hospitals require you to book way in advance, even as early as 13 weeks into the pregnancy, while others only take registrations two months before your due date, so make sure to find out when you need to register at your preferred hospital to avoid disappointment or having to do paperwork between contractions. Most hospitals offer an information evening (Infoabend), during which prospective patients can have a look around the facilities, meet with the staff and ask questions. Some hospitals offer private family rooms at an additional cost (ranging from 60 euros p/n to 150 euros p/n if you prefer more privacy after the birth, while others have shared rooms. If you would like a family room, it is best to book in advance. You will need your Mutterpass, your passport, and possibly a copy of your birth certificate (and marriage certificate if you are married) when doing the registration. Where you give birth is a very personal choice. Here are some pros and cons. 1. Hospital birth options: While delivery rooms are almost all equipped with the traditional hospital bed, many also have an alternative available to aid in more comfortable labour. Some delivery rooms has jacuzzi tubs for water births, king-sized beds allowing dads to take an active role in the delivery or
The following websites also offer valuable information:
Parental leave (Elternzeit)
Parental leave is an important benefit in Germany that aims to support new parents during what can be a challenging and demanding period in their lives. It is designed to give mothers and fathers the necessary time off work to bond with their newborn child, as well as to manage the many responsibilities that come with being a parent. Parental leave is an essential component of Germany’s labor laws and reflects the government’s commitment to supporting families and helping them achieve a healthy work-life balance.
- Parental Leave – Very informative page from the Make it in Germany Website
- Elternzeit – Handbook Germany
- Pamflet from the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs
Parental allowances
The following websites offer detailed information about Family benefits:
- Bundesministerium für Familie, Senioren, Frauen und Jugend (Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth)
Parental allowance in Germany (Elterngeld)
Financial security for your growing family. Because those first moments matter the most. Elterngeld, also known as Parental Allowance, is designed to compensate for the loss of income when parents take time off work or reduce their working hours to care for their newborn or newly adopted child. This benefit aims to give parents the financial flexibility to spend quality time with their child during the first crucial months of life. As new parents, both you and your partner are entitled to Germany’s generous parental allowance.If you or your partner has recently had a child, you may be eligible
Kitas
Kitas
Kita is a German abbreviation for “Kindertagesstätte,” which translates to “daycare centre” in English. In Germany, Kita is a term used to refer to preschool or early childhood education facilities that offer care and education for children aged 0-6 years old. These facilities are usually run by the government, religious or private organizations and follow a structured curriculum aimed at promoting children’s learning and development.It is not mandatory to send your child to a Kita. Types of Kitas Nurseries or Kinderkrippe – for children between the ages of 1 and 3 years Kindergarten – Children between the ages of 3 and 6 years Tagesmutter After-school – Primary school children after-school care Finding a place at a Kita When you have legal residence in Germany, and are registered at your Town (Bürgeramt Meldepflight), your children between the ages of 1 and 6 years, have a legal right to a childcare placement. Although this is the law, there is a serious shortage of available childcare placements. The city has 3 months to find a placement for your child. If they fail to do so, you can sue them for the costs of a Tagesmutter or other costs incurred for day care. You can also sue for the loss of income if you are unable to work because you cannot find a placement for your child at a Kita. There are companies who specialise in assisting you with this. One such company is KeinKitaPlatz. Please note that you also have a responsibility to apply for a placement well in advanceTo find a Kita close to you, look on the following websites: Jugendämter Familien Portal Kita.de Kindergarten-Vergleich You can also look on church websites or official town or Federal state websites. Alternatively, search Kita + “your town” on the internet.Here are some examples Kitas Stuttgart Kindertageseinrichtungen in Baden-Württemberg Evangelische Kindertageseinrichtungen in Stuttgart Kitas Hamburg Kita Finder München Kita navigator Berlin Find a childcare place in Frankfurt Your options for finding a placement while still outside of Germany are very limited. You can ask for assistance at the Migration Centre in your area. To find a centre close to you look on the The Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge (BAMF) website. Another option is to contact the Jugendmigrationsdienste (JMD), which assists young people with a migration background aged between 12 and 27 with their integration process in Germany. If you cannot find a place for your child, or would rather have your child looked after in a small group or separately, you can also hire a childminder (Tagesmutter), a surrogate granny/grandpa (Leih-Oma/Leih-Opa) or an au pair to look after your child. However, childminders, surrogate grannies/grandpas and au pairs are usually not trained in childcare. A childminder usually looks after several children at the same time at his or her home. As with a Kita place, you can receive financial support for the service provided by a childminder. You can contact your Youth Welfare Office or the local administration and ask them to help you find a suitable place. You will also find the application forms for financial support on the site. Another option is to find a “surrogate grandmother” or “Leih-Oma”. A “Leih-Oma” is an elderly woman who takes care of a family’s children -usually as a mini-job. A surrogate grandmother is often involved in family life like a real one, and her service is usually more affordable than a childminder. There are, of course, also surrogate grandfathers or “Leih-Opas”.An au pair is a young person from abroad who comes to Germany for a few months to get to know the language and the country. An Au Pair lives with you and helps you in the household, including in child care. You can search for a childminder, surrogate grandmothers/ grandfathers and au pairs for your children on www.betreut.de, where you can register and search for a suitable option for free. Fees and subsidies The costs of daycare depend on the following factors: How many hours will your child spend in daycare? The family’s income – the more you earn, the more you have to pay. The number of siblings in daycare – Discounts are offered when you have more than one child in daycare. Day-care centres that are run or sponsored by municipalities are usually cheaper compared to private day-care centres. State subsidies apply in some of the Federal states. If you cannot afford the fees, you can apply for a Kita Gutschein at the Jugendamt or Youth Welfare office. School information Related content
Schools
As a concerned parent, it is vital to grasp a clear understanding of the German school system and how your child will navigate through it. It is important to keep in mind that every educational system varies and it can be overwhelming if you are not aware of the differences. Understanding the variations in teaching methods, grading systems, and school organization can help your child succeed in their academic journey in Germany. Apart from academic adjustments, your child may face cultural differences, language barriers, and social integration challenges that must be tackled head-on to ensure their smooth transition. Being familiarized with these differences will assist you in guiding your child academically and providing them with the support they need to achieve their goals in the German education system. See the referenced page below for more information.
School Information
The German School system is quite unique and distinguishes itself from the South African models in a number of ways Schulpflicht In Germany, Schulpflicht (compulsory schooling) requires children to attend school, ensuring they receive a structured education. In Germany, there is no unified national school law, and the Grundgesetz (Basic Law) does not explicitly regulate Schulpflicht (compulsory schooling). Instead, each Bundesland (federal state) determines its own rules regarding the duration and starting age of compulsory education. Generally, children must start school at the age of six, but the exact cutoff date varies, meaning some children may begin between the ages of five
Parental rights and responsibilities
As a foreign parent residing in Germany, it is important to understand your parental rights and responsibilities. You have the right to raise your child and make decisions about their well-being, including their education, healthcare, and general upbringing. You are also responsible for providing for your child financially, which includes covering the cost of their basic needs such as food, clothing, and housing. Additionally, you may be required to cooperate with the German legal system and comply with any court orders related to your child, such as custody arrangements or child support payments. You must familiarize yourself with Germany’s laws regarding parental rights and responsibilities to ensure that you are meeting all of your obligations and protecting the best interests of your child.
The following websites offer valuable information:
- International Custody Matters – From the Federal Office of Justice
Vaccinations
Measles vaccinations in Germany are now required when you register your child at school.
Parents can be fined thousands of euros if they violate the law
U-Untersuchengen
Ten free “U-Untersuchengen” are offered for each child. They begin immediately after birth and last until the child is six. Many health insurance companies also pay for further examinations during childhood and adolescence.
In Baden-Württemberg, Bayern and Hessen, the U1 to U9 examinations are mandatory by law.
Where to buy clothes, toys and accessories
- Kindsgut
- Hummelhintern - Cloth diapers
- Pampers app - discounts on nappies
- Pampers mobile daiper truck
- Ehrenkind - Toys, furniture and clohes
- Hessnatur - clothes
- IGLU soft play blocks
- StrollMe - Renting Strollers
- Bike Club
- Candles for celebrating birth and baptism
- Cards for celebrating birth and baptism
Dressing you child correctly for the weather
Support groups
Social and sport
Looking for a fun and safe place for your kids to play in Germany? Check out Spielplatztreff! Their extensive database includes thousands of playgrounds nationwide with reviews, photos, and amenities.
Afrikaans
All grown up
Terminology
Maternity Terminology
We created a searchable table to help you look up the German words you might need during and after your pregnancy.
Related content
Women’s Health
Your Health, Your Journey: Navigating Women’s Healthcare in Germany Your Health, Your Journey: Navigating Women’s Healthcare in Germany Contraception Contraception is a vital aspect of reproductive healthcare, and it is readily available at pharmacies. However, to obtain birth control pills, IUDs, and diaphragms, you will need a prescription from your trusted gynaecologist. It’s always best to consult with a medical professional to determine which contraception method would be most suitable for you based on your health history and lifestyle.In case of emergencies, pharmacies do stock emergency contraception, which is easily accessible without a prescription. It’s important to note that emergency contraception should not be used as a regular form of contraception, but rather for unplanned or unprotected intercourse situations.It’s essential to keep in mind that Public Health Insurance (GVK) does not cover contraception costs. Therefore, it’s advisable to discuss the cost implications of any contraception method you choose during your consultation with your healthcare provider. Maternity When it comes to maternity costs, it’s important to know what your health insurance plan covers. Public Health insurance (GVK) is a great option as it covers all maternity costs. However, it’s important to note that some private insurers may only offer maternity coverage as an additional cost. That’s why it’s crucial to review your insurance plan thoroughly to ensure that you have the coverage you need during one of the most important times of your life. Don’t leave anything to chance, take the time to research and understand your insurance plan. Finding a Doctor Finding a doctor can be a challenge especially if you are looking for an English-speaking doctor.Specialists in gynaecology and obstetrics are called “Frauenarzte” and “Gynäkologe” and are the central contact persons for gender-specific diseases and other women’s concerns, such as Pregnancy, menstruation, family planning, contraception and preventive care.The following websites can help in your search Jameda Med kolleg Doctolib – can also book your appointment here Your Gynea visit In Germany, visiting a gynaecologist (Frauenarzt/Frauenärztin) can be quite different from what South African women are used to, especially when it comes to modesty and medical approach. German doctors tend to have a more clinical and practical view of nudity, often expecting patients to undress completely from the waist down/up without much fuss. Unlike in South Africa, where gowns or sheets might be provided for modesty, German gynaecologists typically conduct examinations without such coverings. Some women find this direct approach efficient, while others may feel exposed. Screening In Germany, public health insurance (GVK) covers comprehensive annual screenings for cervical, breast, and ovarian cancer. Pap smear for cervical cancerTo get a mammogram, you typically need a referral (die Überweisung) from your gynaecologist or general practitioner. If you’re over 50, you will receive an invitation every two years for a mammogram, ensuring regular, proactive health care. Private health insurance coverage varies depending on the individual plan. HPV test: Not routinely offered unless there are abnormalities found in your Pap smear. If something’s off: You may be invited for repeat testing or a closer diagnostic follow-up (called a Kolposkopie). More info about HPV Vaccination can be found on the Robert Koch Institut MammogramTo get a mammogram, you typically need a referral (die Überweisung) from your gynaecologist or general practitioner. If you’re over 50, you will receive an invitation every two years for a mammogram, ensuring regular, proactive health care. Private health insurance coverage varies depending on the individual plan. For further details, you can refer to resources about health insurance coverage in Germany. 🩺 Sexual Health Services in Germany IYour sexual health is a vital part of your overall well-being — and in Germany, there are confidential, respectful, and professional services to support you, regardless of your relationship status or medical history. 🌸 What’s Available: STI Testing: Testing for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other infections is widely available through gynaecologists (Frauenärzte), general practitioners (Hausärzte), and local public health offices (Gesundheitsämter). Some services are free or offered anonymously, especially at local health departments. Contraception: You’ll find a wide range of contraception options — from the pill, patch, and IUD to implants and condoms. Note: Most contraceptives (except condoms) are not fully covered by health insurance after age 22, so ask your doctor about costs and coverage. Emergency Contraception: The morning-after pill (Pille danach) is available without a prescription at most pharmacies. Ask the pharmacist for assistance — and don’t be afraid to request English-speaking help. Routine Screenings: Cervical cancer screening (Pap smear) is offered yearly from age 20. HPV testing is available for women over 35 every three years. For further details, you can refer to resources about health insurance coverage in Germany. Many cities offer free or low-cost counselling on sexuality, family planning, relationships, and gender identity. Some organisations provide support in English or other languages. Pro Familia – Germany’s largest nonprofit provider of sexual health counselling. Liebesleben.de – A government-run website offering clear, sex-positive info in German. Support groups Afloat– parent-to-be support group Candice Bake, Life Coach – work specifically with expats navigating the emotional and mental ups and downs of settling into a new city, culture, or way of life Vocabulary Resources on the web Federal Ministry of Health The Federal Joint Committee – a decision-making body of the joint self-government of physicians, dentists, hospitals and health insurance funds in Germany. Deutsche Menopause Gesellschaft Gesund Bund – Information about your health in Germany Related content Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email
Visiting a doctor
Navigating Healthcare in Germany Visiting a doctor in Germany can feel overwhelming at first, but understanding how the system works will help you feel confident and prepared. When I first arrived in Germany, I was fortunate to travel back to South Africa frequently. I relied on that to manage my medical check-ups, avoiding visits to German doctors whenever possible. That strategy worked well—until I hurt my back and had no choice but to seek medical attention locally. Although I could speak German, I struggled to recall the specific terms for body parts and medical conditions, which made communication incredibly challenging. My advice? Don’t wait until an emergency forces you to find a doctor. Start by scheduling your routine check-ups early on—it’s an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the healthcare system and your local medical professionals. German doctors are highly professional and competent, but their approach can feel very business-like compared to what you might be used to in South Africa. They tend to be direct and honest, and they expect you to take responsibility for your health. For example, when I visited an orthopaedist for my back injury, the doctor not only treated me with an injection but also emphasized holistic recovery methods. He was blunt about the need to strengthen my body and even scolded me for not taking better care of myself. It was a stark contrast to the more sympathetic approach I was accustomed to in South Africa. Another important difference is that some German doctors may not accept your medical history from South Africa. Instead, they’ll conduct their own tests before beginning treatment. While this can be frustrating, it also ensures a thorough and accurate diagnosis. If you’re new to Germany, embracing the local healthcare system sooner rather than later can save you a lot of stress down the road. Finding a doctor Finding a doctor in Germany can be challenging, especially if you’re looking for an English-speaking practitioner. Your general practitioner (GP) is called a Hausarzt, and you are free to choose your doctor. However, to see a specialist (Facharzt), you will often need a referral (Überweisung) from your GP. Here are some websites to help with your search: Jameda Med Kolleg Doctolib – You can also book your appointment directly on this platform. Additionally, we have listed some medical professionals on our website, many of whom have a South African background and speak at least one of the official languages. For further recommendations, consider reaching out to local expat communities—they can be a valuable resource for finding trusted doctors. Online Consultations You can talk to a doctor online on Mobi Doctor. They are not covered by medical insurance. 💡 While online doctors can be a convenient option in certain situations, visiting a doctor in person is often essential for a thorough examination and accurate diagnosis. I was having an issue that I just couldn’t get better. I ended up using an online doctor service, and got antibiotics, and was better quick quick. It was about 25€, and I had to pay for meds. The prescriptions are accepted by the pharmacists – you can just show it to them on your phone, no physical print out needed. (Note from admin, this is not always accepted by all pharmacies, some require a printout) Shelley-Ann The prescriptions from online portals are usually accepted when they are issued through secure portals that are communicated directly to the pharmacies email address to avoid fraud. The scripts are usually private scripts so the “gesetzliche Krankenkasse” will not pay for it. They only pay for medicines issued on an official German “Kassenrezept” JulianPharmacist They will only be able to issue private scripts, meaning the Public health insurance will not pay for it. As long as the prescription was issued in an EU Country, you can submit it to a pharmacy in Germany, but you will pay for it yourself. KarelPharmacist Mobi doctor Good to know If you are on the public or Government “gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) ” health insurance, you must always take your medical card with you to your appointment. Your bills will be sent directly to the insurance. If you are on GVK, make sure that your doctor is registered on the public healthcare system or Kassenärzte and that they accept GVK, some only accept private patients and you will have to pay out of your own pocket if you are on the public health insurance. If you are privately insured, you will receive a bill which you have to pay and claim back from your insurance. Antibiotics are only used as a last resort, if you have a cold you might get some Aspirin and be told to get some bed rest. German doctors do not have an issue with nakedness and you might be asked to strip down to the basics when you have a more thorough examination like an EKG. Prepare beforehand by writing down what you want to say and translating it into German beforehand. Miscommunication can happen easily when you’re unfamiliar with medical terms, symptoms, or body parts. Check out our related content on medical terminology to help you communicate effectively. Your bill The codes on your bill should correspond to the ICD codes, which is a globally recognized system that is used to label medical diagnoses. You can search the codes hereCancellation of appointmentsIf you cannot make your appointment, cancel as early as possible and make your new appointment right away. Confirm the cancellation by e-mail or in writing. If you do not cancel an appointment in time you can be charged for it, see § 615 BGB (Paragraph 615 of the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch) Pharmacies In Germany, pain medication that is easily available in South African grocery stores can only be purchased at a pharmacy (Apotheke). Additionally, the rules for over-the-counter medications (Rezeptfrei) are much stricter here.If you have questions about medication, our “Ask a Pharmacist” service connects you with South African pharmacists working in Germany who can provide guidance. To find an emergency pharmacy (Notdienst-Apotheke), you
Learning German
Master the Language. Embrace the Culture. Embarking on the journey to learn German can be approached in various ways to suit your lifestyle and goals. Online platforms offer the convenience of flexible language courses, while mobile apps make learning easy wherever you are. For a more interactive experience, attending in-person classes can provide practical lessons and opportunities to practice with others. European Language Framework In Germany, the European Language Framework (CEFR) is widely used to assess language proficiency. This framework helps learners understand their current skill level, identify areas for improvement, and work towards internationally recognized certifications. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, there’s a path to mastering German that fits your needs. Level Group Level Description ABasic user A1Breakthrough or beginner Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live, people they know and things they have. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help. A2Waystage or elementary Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. Can describe in simple terms aspects of their background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need. BIndependent user B1Threshold or intermediate Can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise while traveling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. B2Vantage or upper intermediate Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options. CProficient user C1Effective operational proficiency or advanced Can understand a wide range of demanding, longer clauses, and recognize implicit meaning. Can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices. C2Mastery or proficiency Can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations. Online Courses Online German courses are becoming increasingly popular among students and professionals who wish to improve their language skills. If you are considering taking a German course online, you may be pleased to know that several institutions offer high-quality language instruction. These courses typically cover a range of language competencies, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension. VHS-lernportal is free to use Goethe Deutsche Welle DW.com – Nicos Weg www.deutsch-uni.com www.alumniportal-deutschland.org Lingoda LerneDeutsch For small school going children – Scoyo Udemy offers thousands of courses for learning German. The following were recommended to us: A.1.1, A1.2, A2.1, A2.2 Kevin Gründel – Udemy Native German Language teacher Learn German in South Africa The following institutions offer traditional classroom courses which provide face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers. You will have the opportunity to learn German in a supportive and structured environment, with experienced instructors who will guide you through every step of the process. Goethe Institute Johannesburg The German Language & Cultural Institute Study German in Germany The best way to learn any language is by attending classes and practising it in a real-life setting. Not only do these classes enhance your language skills, but they also expose you to German culture and open doors to new friendships and experiences. Local Volkshochschule – VHS Berlitz Language school Integration course If you received your residence permit after January 1, 2005, and cannot communicate at a basic or adequate level in German, you may be required to attend an integration course. This requirement is determined by the immigration office when your residence permit is issued. If you are receiving citizens’ benefits and are instructed by the relevant office to participate in an integration course, attendance is mandatory. Cost Exemptions and Reimbursements Exemptions from Costs:If you receive citizens’ benefits, unemployment benefits, or assistance to cover living expenses, you can apply for an exemption from course fees. Additionally, those facing financial or personal hardships may also qualify for an exemption. Reimbursement of Costs:If you pass the final test of the integration course within two years (or three years for special target groups) from the date your Eligibility Certificate (Teilnahmeberechtigung) was issued, you may be eligible to have half your course fees reimbursed. This requires completing and submitting an application to the appropriate branch office. For detailed information, visit the BAMF website or the BAMF NAvI website. Where to register and write the exams To be recognised for German integration courses, permanent residency, or citizenship, your B1 or B2 language exam must be from a provider that is officially recognised by the BAMF (Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge) and accepted by your local Ausländerbehörde. Here’s where you can take such exams: Volkshochschule (VHS) Your local adult education centre Offers telc and Goethe exams Also offers preparation courses and integration courses Learn More Goethe-Institut Offers Goethe-Zertifikat B1 and B2 Widely accepted for citizenship and residency Locations: Across Germany and worldwide Learn More telc gGmbH Offers
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