How to create an ELSTER account
This is how you create a My ELSTER account. You need this account to access ELSTER services, and file your German tax return online.
Latest guides
How to create a Service-Konto Berlin
You need a Service-Konto to access Berlin's digital services. This is how you create it.
How to get a Gewerbeschein in Berlin
This is how you get a trade licence (Gewerbeschein) and register for the trade tax (Gewerbesteuer).)
The Mietendeckel is gone. Here's what it means.
The Mietendeckel was repealed. You might have to give the money you saved back, but there are other ways to reduce your rent.
Police and emergency numbers in Berlin
If you need to call the emergency services, call 112. For the police, call 110. This guide also tells you how to call other emergency services in Berlin.
How to learn German in Berlin
A list of German schools, language learning apps and other resources to improve your German in Berlin.
Buying eyeglasses in Germany
General information about getting glasses in Germany: what health insurers pay for, where to get glasses for cheap and other ways to pay less for eyeglasses.
How to renew a German freelance visa
When your German freelance visa is about to expire, you must renew it. This is how you must do it.
Cost of living in Berlin, and Germany
How much does it cost to live in Berlin? Is your salary enough to live there? This is how you can make a budget and find the answer.
What is the trade tax (Gewerbesteuer)?
If you are self-employed in Germany, you might have to pay a trade tax. This is how it works, and how much it costs.
Recently updated guides
How to find an apartment in Berlin
Finding an apartment in Berlin is a daunting task, but these resources should make it easier for you.
List of English-speaking doctors and GPs in Berlin
These doctors serve their patients in English in Berlin.
List of English-speaking dentists in Berlin
A list of known English-speaking dentists in Berlin, built from various sources like Facebook posts, Reddit threads, guides from embassies and Google Maps reviews.
List of English-speaking lawyers in Berlin
This list of English, French and Spanish-speaking lawyers will help you with any legal issues you might encounter while living in Berlin.
How to find your German tax ID (Steuer-ID, Steuernummer and VAT number)
A brief guide to obtaining or finding your tax identification number in Germany
The Anmeldung - How to register an address in Berlin
A plain English guide to registering an address in Berlin. This is how you get a Meldebescheinigung and a tax ID.
When are the quiet hours in Berlin?
Here's how the quiet hours work in Berlin, and what to do with loud neighbours in Berlin
Coronavirus in Berlin: rules, quarantine, tests and vaccines
The COVID-19 situation explained in plain English, including risk areas, travel restrictions, quarantine rules, getting tested and getting vaccinated.
How to move out of an apartment in Germany
Everything you need to think about when leaving your apartment in Germany: address changes, contract cancellations, moving companies and more.
How does the apartment deposit (Kaution) work in Germany?
Here's how you pay your apartment deposit (Mietkaution) in Germany, and how you get all of it back when you move out.