Using this Guide
On the left side of your page you will see that Germany has now moved to the top of the list and has 4 further subcategories beneath it. These are:
Moving To... this section identifies what you would need to think about and then do before you move to Germany.
Living In... this section identifies tasks which need to be done once you arrive in Germany.
Leaving... we know that those who move countries don't always stay forever! This is a guide to either returning home to the UK, or moving to your next exciting destination.
Resources... we know that finding English speaking people to help you while in a foreign country can be very difficult. Here we have companies who guarantee to have at least one English speaking person, so you know you will always be understood. Although this section is growing all the time, there are no limits to the kind of resources available. You will find International Banking, Real Estate Agencies, Schools, Doctors, Dentists, Insurance Companies....
In the above pages, you will find all you ever need to know about moving to, and life in Germany. We have included everything from culture and residency, to how to register with a Doctor/Dentist and bringing your pet!
The information provided is comprehensive, and presented in a very easy to follow format. Simply click on the topic that you would like to see, and be directed to the information you need! We have done the research for you - what more can you ask for?! Under each topic heading we have listed between 2 and 6 different links so you can double check the information given on each section. This allows for independent information and clarification of any potential conflicts.
Duplication
Within these pages there are sections which you will see are duplicated. This is intentional and is so you always get the same information. An example of this would be in the "Moving to..." and the "Living in..." sections. Both pages address the topic of schooling and studying. There are two reasons why this section is duplicated. Firstly, if you have children it's something you need to know about and think about before moving to Germany hence it's in the "Moving to..." section. However, you may also be using this site as reference once you have moved to Germany. Imagine this... you move to Germany, have a wonderful time and then realise you need to put a child into school! When you originally moved, you didn't have a school age child - this makes putting this in the "Living in..." section too the sensible thing to do!
Look and See
Okay, so here you are, you've decided to investigate more about moving to Germany. Great! BUT... Have you been to the country to have a look? Have you thought about where you'll be living? Have you actually taken the time to do a "Look and See" visit with a view to living there? Looking at a country with a view to a new life is very different to visiting on holiday. If not, we would STRONGLY recommend that you do. The pull of a foreign country can have a very romantic appeal. But the reality can become something very different. So make sure that you take that trip and have a good look around. It could save you a lot of heartache in the long term.
Making a fresh start in a new country can leave you feeling very lonely. No matter how many friends you have there, ultimately, it's how you feel about yourself and those you live with who will determine how you feel on a daily basis. If you are moving because you are running away from something, chances are, you'll take it with you and if you're moving with someone, make sure that the relationship is 100% secure. It is likely that this person will be your only source of friendship for quite some time.
Germany also has a great forum for expats which can be found here:
Toytown Germany
Foreign Commonwealth Office Travel Advice
The Foreign Office keeps a website up to date will information and risk assessment about travelling there. It is certainly worth reading prior to making any long term decisions. To find out what they have to say about Germany, click here: Foreign & Commonwealth Office - Germany
Please also remember that at any time you can contact the German Consulate or Embassy.
German Consulate
Side Entrance
1-6 Chesham Place,
Belgrave Mews West,
London
SW1X 8PZ
UK
Embassy of Germany
23 Belgrave Square
London,
SW1X 8PZ,
UK
Tel: +44 (0) 207 824 1300
Fax: +44 (0) 207 824 1449
The German Embassy Website is located here.