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Working in Germany

Currently in Germany

Currency

Euro

Weather

Munich

Rain Shower, 16 C

Berlin

Fair, 25 C

Frankfurt

Partly Cloudy, 26 C

Hamburg

Partly Cloudy, 23 C

Population:

82,329,758 (July 2009 est.)

Time difference:

(GMT+1)

Telephone code:

+49

Capital:

Berlin

Languages:

German (official)

Tax Authority:

Bundeszentralamt für Steuern - www.steuerliches-info-center.de

Social Security:

Deutsche Sozialversicherung - www.deutsche-sozialversicherung.de

Tax Calculator:

www.abgabenrechner.de   (income calculator) and http://www.lohnspiegel.de

Social Security & Tax System:

With 27,6% of GDP going to public welfare, the German welfare system is one of the most comprehensive in the world providing unemployment, pension, health and accident insurance. The system works by the employer deducting the employee’s contribution from his gross pay at source and transferring it to the various insurance funds on the employee’s behalf.
Taxation of an individual's income is progressive, the higher the income and the higher rate of tax. The German tax rates for an individual are 15% - 45%.

Average Monthly Rent

Accommodation:

Once you have located permanent accommodation in Germany, you need to register within one week with the local Residents' Registration Office “Einwohnermeldeamt” that you will find in every town hall  (you must inform them also every time that you change your residence). You'll need your passport and your rental agreement “Mietvertrag”.  You'll receive your “Anmeldebestätigung”, a stamped and signed confirmation form. This, together with your passport or other legal ID, is your official proof of address for living in Germany.

Opening a bank account in Germany:

The process to open a bank account in Germany is normally quick and easy.  You will be asked to provide a legal ID and a proof of address or “Anmeldebestätigung”, some banks may ask you for proof of earnings but this is not always necessary.

How much will I need to relocate to Germany?

• Money for a flight
• Hostel accommodation while looking for a room & job
• Deposit + 1 or 2 months’ rent+ furniture (you will normally find unfurnished accommodation). The price of the rent can get up to half of your salary
• Food, travel and subsistence
• Enough money to cover you until you will receive your first pay from your employer. Most employers will pay you monthly

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