Fast Facts

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Time Zone:

The German time zone is Central European Time (GMT +1)

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Largest Cities:

Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt.

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Size:

Germany has a population of approximately 83.2 million people and is 357, 386 sq km.

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Currency:

The Euro is used in Germany.

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Languages

German, but English is also widely understood and spoken across the country.

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Climate:

Overall, Germany has a moderate climate. Extreme temperatures are rare, but there are regional differences. The northern coastal region has warm summers and mild winters whereas conditions inland can vary. In winter temperatures fall between 5°C (41°F) and –4°C (23°F) with snow in the mountainous areas. Summer highs average around 23°C (74°F) but can exceed 30°C (86°F) during heatwaves. Like anywhere, you can expect rain at any time of the year.

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Location:

Germany is the largest country in Central Europe and includes 16 federal states. It is bordered by Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium and the Netherlands.

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The German Culture

The German way of life has many similarities with the rest of Europe but, there are certain things that can take some getting used to.

Germans are polite but direct. Locals can be reserved and don’t like to engage in small talk but once you’ve made friends, you’ll soon find they are easy-going, warm and loyal.

It’s all about efficiency and following the rules for Germans. You’ll quickly learn not to jaywalk and to get on the bus using the right door. 

Top tip: learn the language! Although English is widely spoken by locals, learning German is important. Even if you can’t speak German, make the effort to learn. Trust us, it will go a long way and help you integrate into the community faster.

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Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

The German Culture

The German way of life has many similarities with the rest of Europe but, there are certain things that can take some getting used to.

Germans are polite but direct. Locals can be reserved and don’t like to engage in small talk but once you’ve made friends, you’ll soon find they are easy-going, warm and loyal.

It’s all about efficiency and following the rules for Germans. You’ll quickly learn not to jaywalk and to get on the bus using the right door. 

Top tip: learn the language! Although English is widely spoken by locals, learning German is important. Even if you can’t speak German, make the effort to learn. Trust us, it will go a long way and help you integrate into the community faster.

Get a Quote Now
Get a Quote Now
Housing in Germany

Housing in Germany

Most expats moving to Germany rent because buying a property is pricey.

The inner city is dominated by tall apartment buildings, also known as wohnsilos.

Single and two-story townhouses can also be found in central areas. If you’re looking for larger family homes, these are usually located in the suburbs.

Get a Quote Now
Get a Quote Now

Pets

If you are planning on moving to Germany with pets, you’ll need to consider the strict rules relating to importing them into the country.

Most pets are welcome, but some dog breeds are considered dangerous and aren’t allowed into the country. It’s important to check the list as this will differ from state to state. 

All pets have to be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, and you’ll need an up-to-date vet certificate. Read our Pet Relocation Guide for more information.  

Get a Quote Now
Pets
Pets

Pets

If you are planning on moving to Germany with pets, you’ll need to consider the strict rules relating to importing them into the country.

Most pets are welcome, but some dog breeds are considered dangerous and aren’t allowed into the country. It’s important to check the list as this will differ from state to state. 

All pets have to be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, and you’ll need an up-to-date vet certificate. Read our Pet Relocation Guide for more information.  

Get a Quote Now
Get a Quote Now
Shipping your Car to Germany

Shipping your Car to Germany

If you are importing a car or another motor vehicle to Germany from outside of the EU, it will be subject to a 10% import duty and a 19% import value added tax.

However, if you intend to become a full-time resident in Germany and meet certain requirements, you can bring your personal car free of duty and import turnover tax.

Get a Quote Now
Get a Quote Now

Schooling

Each state in Germany manages its own school system.  Some expats send their children to public schools where independence is encouraged, and students have the freedom to develop their natural talents.

While some children are sent to international schools, where classes are provided in the student’s native language as well as German. The class sizes in international schools are usually smaller compared to public schools but, the cost of education is higher.

The school year varies across states, but it usually begins in July with a six-week summer break and more shorter holidays throughout the year.

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schools
schools

Schooling

Each state in Germany manages its own school system.  Some expats send their children to public schools where independence is encouraged, and students have the freedom to develop their natural talents.

While some children are sent to international schools, where classes are provided in the student’s native language as well as German. The class sizes in international schools are usually smaller compared to public schools but, the cost of education is higher.

The school year varies across states, but it usually begins in July with a six-week summer break and more shorter holidays throughout the year.

Get a Quote Now
Get a Quote Now

About our Local Frankfurt Office

Date Opened: April 10, 2006

Country Manager: Daniel Halfpap

Location: 

Frankfurt, Germany
Kleiner Kornweg 26-28
65451 Kelsterbach
+49 6107 69840 10

Service offerings:

  • Full-service local, regional and international home moving services
  • Employee relocation services
  • Assignment management services
  • Visa and immigration services
  • Move management services
  • Lump sum program management 
  • Advisory and consulting services
Sterling Lexicon Frankfurt office
Sterling Lexicon Frankfurt office

About our Local Frankfurt Office

Date Opened: April 10, 2006

Country Manager: Daniel Halfpap

Location: 

Frankfurt, Germany
Kleiner Kornweg 26-28
65451 Kelsterbach
+49 6107 69840 10

Service offerings:

  • Full-service local, regional and international home moving services
  • Employee relocation services
  • Assignment management services
  • Visa and immigration services
  • Move management services
  • Lump sum program management 
  • Advisory and consulting services
Ready to move?

Ready to move?

Contact Sterling Lexicon today and schedule a free virtual survey.

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