Everything you need to know before you pack your bags.
Moving from South Africa to Germany is exciting, life-changing, and sometimes overwhelming. From finding a place to live and understanding healthcare to deciding what furniture to bring and what to leave behind, there are dozens of decisions waiting for you.
We’ve gathered practical advice, real experiences, and useful resources to help make your move smoother, cheaper, and a little less stressful.
Moving to Germany often comes with a bit of sticker shock, especially when it comes to housing. In general, rent, property prices, health insurance, and many services are more expensive than in South Africa. On the other hand, salaries, public infrastructure, social benefits, and consumer protections are generally higher.
The cost of living can vary significantly depending on where you choose to live. Large cities such as Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Düsseldorf tend to have higher housing costs, while smaller towns and rural areas are often much more affordable.
Food prices, utilities, transport, and clothing costs also depend on your lifestyle and shopping habits. Discount supermarkets such as Aldi, Lidl, Netto, and Penny can help keep grocery costs down, while premium supermarkets and city-centre shopping areas can be considerably more expensive.
Before making the move, it is worth comparing your expected expenses in Germany with your current costs in South Africa. The following resources can help you estimate and plan your budget
For a detailed breakdown of start-up costs, deposits, accommodation, insurance, groceries, transport, and how much money you may need when arriving in Germany, read our guide: The Real Cost of Starting a New Life in Germany.
Useful Cost-of-Living Resources
The Real Cost of Starting a New Life in Germany One of the biggest worries before moving to Germany is: “How much money do we actually need before arriving?” The honest answer depends on your city, family size, medical insurance, and whether accommodation is already arranged — but most newcomers underestimate
Health Insurance in Germany: A Guide for South Africans In Germany, health insurance (Krankenversicherung) isn’t a choice — it’s a legal requirement for every resident, and a prerequisite for obtaining your Aufenthaltstitel (residence permit).Before you can truly settle in, this is one of the very first boxes you’ll need to
Pensions in Germany The pension system in Germany can be complex, especially for foreigners. Employees, freelancers, and anyone planning for retirement all face different rules and responsibilities. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Homepage of the Deutsche Rentenversicherung The German state pension scheme provides valuable resources and
If you have not already, you need to find a place to stay.
The best advice we can give is to start by renting a furnished place in the city where you want to live while you wait for your furniture to arrive. This gives you a chance to explore the areas that appeal to you.
Bear in mind that most places in Germany are smaller than what you might be used to in South Africa. Most young people live in the cities in a flat (die Wohnung), or a shared house.
Living in a shared house is very common and is well organised and thought through.
When you are looking for a place with a garden, it is best to look a bit outside of the city.
Finding a place to rent Finding a place to rent in Germany is a lot like going for a job interview — you need to sell yourself, make a great impression, and show that you’re reliable.The key? Go in prepared, paperwork in hand, and confidence on your face. Documents needed
Housing in Germany Finding a home in Germany means learning a new kind of language — one spoken in bricks, beams, and balcony railings. A charming Altbauwohnung with vintage flair, a bright Penthouse floating above the city, or a snug Einliegerwohnung tucked into a family home — each space tells
You need to decide what to do with your current belongings and furniture. Most of the time, this is a very emotional decision, and what you decide will depend on your situation. Many ex-pats stay in furnished accommodation for the first couple of months, to allow them to find their feet. Remember, shipping containers can take months to arrive.
Sell everything, but then you have to be certain that you will not return to South Africa soon.
You can opt to lease furniture in Germany. Lyght Living and In-lease offers such services
Store your furniture
Many ex-pats who plan to live in Germany short-term rent out their property and store their furniture. Once you are settled in or have long-term plans in Germany, you can arrange to have your furniture shipped
Bring your furniture with you, but keep home and room sizes in mind. Big bulky furniture will not work in most living spaces, and it is expensive to ship it.
Do not bring along crockery and linen, it will most likely be cheaper to buy new items here, unless you have very expensive or sentimental items, of course.
I also find that the curtain rails here are very different from those in SA.
Good places to look online and compare prices are:
Beds, Mattresses and Duvets The sleeping arrangements in Germany are a bit different from what we are used to in South Africa. The average German couple sleeps on a bed base with two single mattresses, and each with their own duvet.Some would argue for this, but I would at least want to share a duvet with my partner. I vacuum-packed all my queen-size duvets and brought them with me to Germany, together with my standard
Shipping and Relocation Companies Relocating across continents is no small feat — it takes planning, patience, and a few strong cups of coffee. From finding a reliable shipping company to choosing full-service relocation support, the decisions can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve gathered real recommendations from the people who know best: our South Africans in Germany community. On this page, you’ll find a curated list of shipping companies to help move your belongings and relocation
The consensus among most ex-pats is that is not worth it to ship your standard big electronic equipment. Compare the price of new equipment against your shipping costs. Also, consider repair costs and spare part availability. Brands like Defy and Kelvinator are not available in Germany. Information about the EU Energy-efficient labelling can be found on this page
In Germany for cable tv, the tv standard “DVB-C” is used: see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DVB-C
For “normal TV” via antenna, the standard DVB-T is used.
So if you TV cannot handle DVB-T or DVB-C, then you will not be able to receive German TV channels.
If your TV doesn’t support these broadcasting standards, you can buy a set top box (receiver) which will receive these channels and then shows the channels via an HDMI cable on your tv (like an “mnet decoder” basically).
Search for “DVB-C receiver” on amazon and you will find many, starting at circa 30€ all the way up to 200€, depending on whether you want additional things like recording.
There’s a popular saying in Germany: “There is no bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” You’ll soon discover that Germans take this philosophy seriously!
If you’re moving from South Africa, don’t assume that your current winter wardrobe will be enough. German winters are often cold, wet, windy, and can feel much longer than what most South Africans are used to.
Rather than packing bulky winter clothing, bring clothes that can be layered. Once you arrive, invest in a good-quality waterproof and wind-resistant winter jacket that is suited to local conditions.
Footwear is another area where many newcomers get caught out. German winters often mean rain, snow, ice, and slippery pavements. Shoes with thin soles offer little insulation and grip, leaving your feet cold and increasing the risk of slipping. Comfortable, waterproof shoes or boots with good traction are a worthwhile investment.
It’s also worth remembering that you’ll probably walk far more in Germany than you did in South Africa. Between public transport, city centres, and pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods, comfortable footwear quickly becomes essential. Cobblestone streets are common in many towns and cities, making high heels and uncomfortable shoes less practical for everyday use.
The good news is that most of your summer clothing will work perfectly well during Germany’s warmer months.
Before packing your entire wardrobe, you may want to compare prices at some popular German retailers:
Galeria Kaufhof, Bonprix, C und A, TK Maxx, Jack Wolfskin – outdoor clothing, Deichmann – shoes
How to Dress for the German Autumn: Practical Tips for Visitors Autumn in Germany—September through November—means ever-changing weather: mornings at ~8 °C, sunny afternoons around 15 °C, occasional rain, wind, and dampness. One moment you’re in a light sweater; the next, reaching for gloves—and then shedding layers on the bus.Embrace the onion
Shopping Shopping in Germany – A Whole New Trolley RideNew country, new customs, and even your weekly grocery run feels like an Olympic event? You’re not alone. Shopping in Germany can seem intimidating at first, but once you learn the rhythm, it becomes part of the dance of everyday life
How to Dress for the German Winter: Practical Tips for Visitors German winters are renowned for being cold, wet, and windy, characterised by slippery roads and frequent rainfall. If you’re visiting Germany this season, dressing appropriately will ensure comfort and warmth while going about daily activities like dining out or
We understand how difficult it can be to find the perfect shop where you can buy new clothes. That’s why we took the initiative to put together a comprehensive list of shops that we believe could be helpful in your search. If there are shops that you believe should be included
Woman’s Clothing The following table is a rough guide for Woman’s clothing. Most online shops will have a measurement guide, but even then it might not fit as expected. Shoes This is not a precise conversion, but a rough indication. This for men’s and women’s shoe sizes Vocabulary English German Bra
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Shipping costs, replacement costs, and local regulations can all influence your decision.
Before bringing specialised equipment, research the relevant rules and requirements in Germany, as some hobbies—such as hunting and fishing—are more heavily regulated than in South Africa.
Everything you need to know about bringing your furry babies to Germany.
We also listed companies that assist with travel arrangements for your pets
Pets Bringing your fur babies to a new country is both exciting and emotional Moving pets from South Africa to Germany comes with its own set of rules, and they often change. That’s why we’ve gathered up-to-date links to official guidelines so you can be sure you’re working with the latest information. We’ve also included trusted pet immigration services recommended by fellow South Africans, plus a section where people share their do-it-yourself success stories—perfect if you prefer to handle the process yourself. Banned and Restricted Dog Breeds in Germany 🚫🐕 Germany has strict regulations on certain dog breeds, and
The final step before your new adventure begins is getting there. Here you’ll find practical information on booking flights, travelling with pets, choosing airports, and preparing for your journey from South Africa to Germany.
For a National Visa (long-term type D), you only book your flight tickets after you receive your Visa.
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine This page is dedicated to helping you make the best choices when it comes to planning your travels. We have information about Airlines that fly between Germany and South Africa, airports in Germany and tips for searching for flights that fit your needs. We also cover essential topics such as packing your luggage and choosing travel insurance. If you’ve got your own tips to share, we’d love to hear them! Simply submit them to us, and we’ll be happy to include them on the page. Major
A Guide for South African Visitors: What to Know Before Visiting Germany Visiting family or friends in Germany is an exciting experience, but it’s essential to be aware of some cultural differences and legal considerations to avoid surprises. Here’s a guide to help South African visitors make the most of their stay while respecting German norms. Greetings and Language Basics When visiting Germany, a warm greeting and a few German phrases can go a long way in making a good first impression. Germans appreciate politeness and directness in communication, and understanding a few simple cultural cues can help you
“Traveling to Germany is like stepping into a storybook, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes weave a tale you’ll never forget.” If you’re planning a trip to Germany, we’ve got some travel tips that we think you’ll find incredibly helpful. If you’ve got your own tips to share, we’d love to hear them! Simply submit them to us and we’ll be happy to include them on the page. Topics New SARS Traveller declaration Travellers entering or leaving South Africa should be aware of the new SARS Traveller Declaration Form. From 1 July 2026, most travellers are required to complete a Customs
Make sure you cancelled all your contracts in South Africa, and apply for services here as soon as you registered your place of living with the Bürgerampt. Remember to cancel your TV license in South Africa. You will get a GEZ letter as soon as you are registered, to pay your broadcasting fees
Internet in the cities are very good and most use cable. In the smaller towns, you might have to use your good old telephone line or 3G.
Most internet providers offer an internet package, with television and mobile services.
The most popular are Telekom, Vodafone, and O2
The TKMoG (Telecommunications Modernisation Act), will come into force on December 1, 2021. If the provider does not provide the contractually agreed transmission rate, the customer can now reduce the monthly fee based on the newly introduced proportional reduction right. A special right of termination can also be used under certain circumstances. If a technician does not come on the agreed date or if there is a fault that has not been rectified, this can lead to compensation claims against the provider.
Another change is that providers have to offer a 12-month contract and not only 24-month contracts. If the contract has expired you can now cancel it with a one month notice period. Previously your contract was automatically extended for another year if you did not cancel it in time. The new regulation will also apply to existing contracts.
Internet, Television and mobile Most providers in Germany offer bundled packages that combine internet, mobile, and television services. Fibre optic (Glasfaser) internet is Germany’s fastest and most modern option, available in many cities and larger towns. It offers blazing speeds for streaming, video calls, and remote work. In some areas,
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 2026 fees are €18.36 per month and can be paid quarterly (€55.08) or €220.32 per yearThe Rundfunkbeitrag
Streaming South African content A little screen-time comfort, done the right way. When homesickness hits, familiar voices, accents, and stories can feel like a warm blanket. The good news? You can legally watch some South African content in Germany — if you know where to look and where not to.
We have a comprehensive guide to life in Germany. On this page, we’ve curated links to our most essential sections and pages, providing you with valuable insights into the daily experiences and cultural nuances of living 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. 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. Schools and Studies Enroll at a
Curious about the differences between life in Germany and South Africa? Or interested in what we love about Germany? Check out the following pages for insights and highlights on the unique aspects of living in Germany as a South African.
Every county has their own way of doing things, and your first couple of months living in a new country will be a steep learning curve. Here are some of the differences between South Africa and Germany as well as some basic info we would classify into “I wish someone told me that!” DisclaimerMost of the information were translated from German, and although we do our upmost to provide correct and up to date information, you
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 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
Frequently Asked Questions 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 new country can be exciting yet overwhelming, so it’s important to have all the necessary information at your fingertips. In this section, we’ll cover some of the most common questions that newcomers to Germany have, so you can feel more prepared and confident. Will my children adapt
The official language of Germany is German.
Germany is also home to a diverse array of dialects, reflecting the country’s rich cultural and regional history. Here are some of the main dialect groups: Hochdeutsch, Plattdeutsch, Bairisch-Österreichisch, Fränkisch, Schwäbisch, Alemannisch, Sächsisch and Hessisch.
When moving to Germany, the language proficiency requirements vary depending on the type of visa you apply for. Generally, most visas only require a basic Level A1 proficiency. However, based on our experience, this level is often insufficient for daily interactions.
To apply for permanent residence, you will need to attend an integration course or pass the necessary exams, which require a higher proficiency level of B1.
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. On this page European Language Framework In Germany, the European Language Framework (CEFR) is
Einbürgerungstest and Leben in Deutschland If you’re planning your future in Germany, you’ve probably come across the Leben in Deutschland (LiD) test and the Einbürgerungstest. At first glance, they seem almost identical—and in many ways, they are. Both tests assess your knowledge of Germany’s legal system, society, history, and values. However, they serve different purposes and are often required at different stages of your journey in Germany. The important difference is why you’re taking the
Residence permits in Germany A Visa allows you to enter Germany and stay for no more than 90 days in a 180-day cycle.When you want to stay in Germany for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for the correct visa in your home country and, once you are in Germany, apply for the subsequent residence permit (Aufenhaltstitel) at the competent Aliens Authority in Germany. There are two main types of residence
Driving in Germany Germany is a beautiful country known for its scenic drive routes, bustling cities, and rich culture. If you are planning to own a car in this country or drive here, there are some important things that you need to know. Owning a car in Germany comes with
Import a used vehicle to Germany The following information was shared with us by someone who went through this process. What documents do you need Proof of ownership – Proof of purchase / Hire purchase agreement Dealers Invoice Original Vehicle registration documents – Proof of registration in your name Current
Documents to bring to Germany What you’ll need in Germany isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on your visa, your family setup, your job, and whether studies are part of your journey. But one thing is certain—Germany runs on paperwork, and being underprepared can slow you down fast. We’ve put together a
Checklist before you travel to Germany Before embarking on your journey to Germany, it is crucial to be aware of all the administrative tasks that will require your attention. While this list is not solely focused on moving tasks, it serves as a comprehensive guide to all the essential administrative
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