Guides about Germany
Newest guides
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How to read your Zusatzblatt
This guide helps you understand the Zusatzblatt that you received with your German residence permit.
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How the Berlin immigration office works
How the Berlin Landesamt für Einwanderung works. This guide explains how to get an appointment, apply for a residence permit, and more.
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Berlin Ausländerbehörde wait times
See how long it takes to get a residence permit at the Berlin immigration office (Landesamt für Einwanderung).
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How to get key doubles in Germany
This is how you make copies of your apartment keys for cheap.
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How to apply for German permanent residence
The process and the requirements to get a Niederlassungserlaubnis and become a permanent resident.
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How to get a Bescheinigung in Steuersachen
This is how you get an certificate of tax matters or Unbedenklichkeitsbescheinigung from the Finanzamt. You might need it for your residence permit or permanent residence.
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How educational leave works (Bildungsurlaub)
How to take a paid vacation to improve your education in Berlin. It's also called "Bildungszeit".
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How banking works in Germany
An introduction to banking, credit cards, savings and bank accounts in Germany.
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Common housing scams in Germany
Apartment scams you must know about when looking for a place to live in Germany.
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How to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases in Berlin
This is how you get tested for HIV, herpes, chlamydia and other STDs in Berlin.
Recent updates
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Where to get help about life in Berlin?
Where to find support and answers to your question as a new Berliner, whether you speak English or German.
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How to start a business in Germany
A detailed guide to all the rules you must follow when starting a business in Germany, from registering as a freelancer to paying your taxes.
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How to go from employee to freelancer in Germany
This is how you go from a full time job to freelancing when you have a German work visa or Blue Card.
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How to save money in Germany
Different ways to save money in Berlin and Germany, without sacrificing your lifestyle.
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How to fill the Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung
This is how you fill the Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung and register your business with the Finanzamt.
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List of English-speaking driving schools in Berlin
A guide to find an English-speaking driving school for your car or motorcycle driving licence.
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Health insurance for a German visa or residence permit
This guide helps you choose health insurance for a Schengen visa, National Visa, Blue Card, freelance visa and other residence permits.
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Changing or losing your job in Germany
What happens when you change jobs, resign or get laid off in Germany. What happens to your health insurance, residence permit, unemployment benefits etc.
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How to find an apartment in Berlin
This guide helps you find an apartment for rent in Berlin. It explains everything from the housing search to moving in.
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How to apply for a German work visa
This is how you apply for a work permit and start working in Germany.