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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How to get a free Schufa
If you are applying for an apartment in Berlin, you will almost always be asked to include a Schufa in your application. This is how you obtain a Schufa-Auskunft for free
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What is the best German bank for expats?
This guide compares the best bank accounts for foreigners. It reviews the features, fees and requirements of each bank.
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How to join the Künstlersozialkasse (KSK)
This guide shows you how to apply for the Künstlersozialkasse. If you are a freelancer, this can save you hundreds of euros per month.
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Where to donate clothes in Berlin
How to get rid of your old clothes and shoes in Berlin.
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How to trade your foreign driver licence for a German one
This is you can exchange a driving licence from another country for a German one.
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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 buy a Deutschland Ticket
This guide explains how the Deutschland Ticket or D-Ticket works as a tourist or as a resident.
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How to use public transit in Berlin
This guide explains how public transportation works in Berlin. It explains how to ride the BVG and DB trains, buses and trams. It also lists other options like car sharing, bike sharing and taxis.
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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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Lost your keys in Berlin? Locked yourself out? Here's what to do
How to replace your lost or stolen keys, and how to call a locksmith and get back into your apartment.