28 Aug 2024
Are you considering relocating to Germany? You're sure to have a great life with tempting food, surprises around every turn, and rich culture. You will get plenty of financial opportunities as well that will help you to send money to Philippines from Germany to offer financial support to your kin. However, there could be a slight case of culture shock for some individuals. But do not worry; keep reading this blog to learn all you need to know before relocating to Germany.
Here are the 10 most important things that you should know about before you move to Germany. These insights will help ensure a smoother transition and make your new life in Germany more enjoyable and manageable.
Locals will welcome foreigners who try to speak a little German here and there, even if most Germans speak English. Additionally, the majority of signs in more rural locations are solely written in German.
Learn the fundamentals first:
Hallo – Hello
Tschüss – Bye
Bitte – Please
Danke – Thank You
Ja – Yes
Nein – No
Entschuldigen sie mich – Excuse me
Foreign nationals residing in Germany should know their contractual and salary rights. As previously stated, a minimum pay of €9.82 per hour is to be expected. That means a gross monthly compensation of approximately €1,704 would result from a 40-hour workday. The government has raised the price to €12 in the latter half of 2022. That comes to a monthly minimum pre-tax salary of approximately €2,083. It is essential to know about this as it can affect your money transfer from Germany to Philippines.
Some exceptions exist; for instance, employees participating in job promotion programs and interns and apprentices are exempt from this minimal salary. Those considered long-term unemployed are also not eligible, at least not for the first six months after they resume employment.
All German citizens, including expats, are entitled to free healthcare (as long as they have health insurance). In Germany, the Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung is used by about 88% of the population. Through it, residents can enroll in any one of 109 sickness funds or insurers.
Taxes pay for Germany's universal public healthcare system, which provides nearly all medical care. Furthermore, most mandatory copayments for prescription drugs are incredibly minimal. However, it is still essential to take care of your health as an expat in Germany.
In addition to charging manufacturers more for superfluous packaging, Germany's "Green Dot" recycling program encourages residents to recycle everything. Glass bottles are sorted by color, cardboard and paper are recycled, organic trash is sent to compost, and electronics are arranged to determine whether they can be repurposed. Every object has a place, and almost nothing goes to waste.
Play by the rules if you want to get along with everyone you encounter in Germany. To begin with, jaywalking is strictly forbidden. You will probably face glares of disapproval if you are observed crossing the street without utilizing the proper protocol. Additionally, you should avoid strolling on the bike routes unless you want to receive a heated reprimand from passing riders.
Most importantly, never, ever disregard quiet hours. Since these hours are legally restricted, loud noises are prohibited on Sundays. Public order officials may visit you if you even turn on loud music, vacuum, or start a load of laundry during quiet hours.
In comparison to other nations, Germany's average cost of living is likewise somewhat affordable. Germany is one of the most affordable European countries to live in, despite an increase in prices. However, this will depend on your intended relocation; Germany's most expensive cities are Munich, Frankfurt, and Cologne. In Germany, the average monthly cost of living for a household is €850 (£738), of which 36% is allocated to housing and utilities.
It may surprise you that many German cafes and small businesses only take cash, considering Germany is one of the most technologically advanced and innovative countries in the world. Even if mobile and internet payment methods have become more prevalent in recent years, "cash is king" is still a common credo among German customers and company owners.
In Germany, maternity leave is paid for 14 weeks after giving birth. Six weeks prior to the anticipated date and eight weeks following are included in this. In addition, fathers have the option to take time off, halting their professions and demanding a pay cut. If they'd like, they can work part-time as well.
Don't worry if you don't have a car; Germany has quick and easy transportation. Choices consist of:
Regardless of their status as expats, all German residents are required to pay tax on their income, both from domestic and foreign sources. The maximum tax rate will be 45% as of 2024. For the majority of professionals in Germany, the top tax rate is 42%, assuming you make between €57,000 and €274,000.
Additionally, the Federal Statistics Office reports that most German taxpayers who file returns get a refund. As an expat, you can use that refund to send money online to Philippines from Germany. You can quickly file your taxes with services like Taxfix. Remember that there is an optional church tax (Kirchensteuer) of up to 9%.
Lastly, expats who have worked and resided in Germany for at least five years are qualified for a state pension.
If you are worried about sending remittances after shifting to Germany, ACE Money Transfer is your solution. It just takes a few minutes to send money to hundreds of countries.
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Moving to Germany may be the best decision you have ever made due to the financial opportunities and easy lifestyle. Remember, that you can save a lot of your money through choosing the exemplary remittance service. Sign up on ACE today to enjoy your first free online money transfer from Germany to Philippines.
Relocating to Germany offers a wealth of opportunities, from enriching cultural experiences and diverse culinary delights to financial prospects and a robust healthcare system. Understanding key aspects of life in Germany, such as language basics, tax implications, and the emphasis on recycling and regulations, will pave the way for a smooth transition.
While navigating cultural nuances and adjusting to local customs might present initial challenges, being well-prepared can make your move more enjoyable and less stressful. Remember, Germany’s efficient public transport and affordable living costs will support your new lifestyle, while the strong financial and healthcare systems provide a solid foundation for you and your family.
Moreover, making an online money transfer from Germany to Philippines is straightforward with services like ACE Money Transfer, ensuring that your financial support reaches your loved ones easily and affordably. With the right preparation and resources, your move to Germany can indeed be a rewarding experience, setting the stage for a fulfilling chapter in your life.
You can expect to work for 40 hours per week in Germany just like most countries, which is usually divided in five days.
Yes, each state in Germany has its own public holidays in addition to national ones, like Unity Day on October 3rd.
Dress codes vary, but business casual is generally accepted, while some sectors might require formal attire.
Yes, as long as you are legally employed and paying into the system, you can access various social security benefits.
Yes, non-EU citizens, including Filipinos, need a work visa to be employed in Germany.
References:
https://www.commonwealthfund.org/international-health-policy-center/countries/germany
