When fantasizing about living in one of the most progressive places in all of Europe, moving to Berlin may be your thing. Being part of the German capital community is what everyone should experience once in a lifetime, and we are here to give you all the reasons why.
Is Berlin a Good Place to Live?
With 800,000 expats already living there, and 40,000 newcomers joining them every year, you have to think of Germany’s capital as one of the friendliest places to live in. Becoming a naturalized citizen here must be the most exciting task people take upon themselves, given the fact they’re making the coolest place in the world their new home.
Once you find yourself living in northeastern Germany, you’ll be hypnotized by its open-minded, multicultural population, unique experience of history. Just by walking down the street (any street) you’ll hear several different languages, pass by a bunch of nightclubs, enter a few museums, and have a picnic in one of the most beautiful parks nearby.
Living in Berlin as an American: Things to Know Before Moving to Germany
If you are wondering if you can just move to Berlin, it’s a good moment to remind you that living in another country requires more insight into the documentation needed, especially when applying for a visa. It should be a priority part of the relocation abroad checklist because moving to Berlin from the US won’t be possible without one. Depending on your situation, there are some ways to stay in the country:
- Work visa – A binding job offer is needed, as well as proof no German or EU nationals were fitting enough for the role.
- Blue Card – A highly skilled individual with a university degree and a competitive job offer qualifies you for a Blue Card.
- Freelance visa – Being self-employed or a freelancer with existing clients makes you a good candidate for this one.
- Student visa – Standard German student visa can be used for up to 6 months, but you have to apply for a residence permit if you want to stay longer.
- Au pair visa – You’re between 18 and 26 years old and wish to assist German families in their daily life? You’ll need an invitation letter from your hosts or an agreement with an au pair agency and basic knowledge of German. Otherwise, you’re free to go.
You Should Learn German Before You Move
Speaking of the German language, if you plan to live there for some time, help yourself and look for tips for learning a new language. Aware of it or not, breaking the language barrier speeds up the adjustment process and enables you to live freely within your new community. Speaking German will give you a distinct advantage in life quality and work opportunities.
To integrate into a community faster, you’ll have to work on your language skills. Check out the video below to see where to start.
How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Berlin?
Compared to other European places, you’ll probably find the costs of living in Berlin as one of its biggest pros. Although it’s not partially cheap, capital proves to be adjusted for everyone’s budget, making it one of the best places to live abroad.
Housing, for example, an expense everybody’s afraid of when relocating overseas, is not something you should be worried about. The median price for a one-room apartment is $600, which is twice as cheap as in the US. Then again, you might want to consider that people there love to say the devil himself controls the rental market. So, it’s best to prepare to wait in line with other 2000ish people for that particular flat you noticed.
Getting Around the City That Trees Built
Living in Berlin will make you fall in love with biking since it’s recognized as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. If you don’t have a bike of your own, there are many Facebook groups like Sell & Buy Your Bike Berlin, you can check out if you don’t want to buy a brand new one.
However, when deciding to move across the world, it is vital to get around the city and not get lost. Rest assured, with 170 underground stations, almost the same number of train stations, and 2,500 bus stops, there’s no way you’ll ever have to wonder how to get from A to B.
Plan Your Health Insurance
When moving to Germany having proper health insurance is not happenstance but a legal requirement. That being said, to relieve some of the relocation stress, it’s crucial to think about your insurance plan well in advance.
However, if your wage is less than $5,577 a month, you’re only eligible for public healthcare, which is why 14.6% – 15.6% of your total income goes towards insurance. In case your income is higher, you can choose private healthcare.
Be Ready for the Local Job Market
Although it may appear that searching for a job in Berlin is already a full-time job itself, it’s best to be armed with patience. It’s one of the fastest-growing economies in Germany, but competition is more fierce than anywhere else in the country. However, it turns out you’re a perfect candidate if you happen to be skilled in some of the following industries: marketing, communications, information technology, digital design, sales and finance, office administration, etc.
Sites like Xing.com and work-oriented online services like LinkedIn will help you find a suitable position. However, be sure to think about relocation questions to ask your employer since moving means making informed decisions.
Best Neighborhoods to Live In
Once you feel what it’s like to live in constant flux in a city with a distinctive character and cosmopolitan vibe, searching for an apartment or a house will not be simple at all. Knocking on expat communities’ doors might help because these people can surely help you find a place to call home. To make it easier for you, we made our shortlist:
- Mitte – If searching for a centrally located, family-friendly neighborhood packed with galleries, cafes, and shopping streets, this is a home for you. With housing prices ranging from $800-1,700 for a two-room apartment, and Tiergarten, a vast city park nearby, you’ll have everything you need to lead a more peaceful life.
- Pankow – We won’t make a mistake if we say this is one of the most eclectic and popular areas. It’s recognized as child-friendly, with a few bilingual schools, lots of playgrounds, and parks.
- Lichtenberg – This one is an excellent solution for students and all those on a tight budget, with apartment costs from $400-1,000. Lichtenberg district is nestled on the eastern side of the city but with quick access to the center.
Moving to Berlin Is an Endlessly Exciting Adventure
There you have it, one relocation and so many things to know. But, do not let them scare you away; with a bit of courage and a bit of preparation, it will be kid’s play, we promise. Then again, you know that you don’t have to go through the entire process all by yourself, do you? Your family and loved ones are here, and you can always ask a professional international moving company to help you with packing services, as well as with any other international moving services needed.
It’s not time to worry. It’s time to act!
