Live and work in Germany

Basic facts about Germany

Germany has the largest population in the EU: a total of 83 million people. The country has an area of 357,500 square metres and is divided into 16 states, the so-called Bundesländer, which each have their own capital and extensive autonomy. Worldwide, Germany is the fourth largest economy. Germany borders the Baltic and North Seas, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic, Austra, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The capital city is Berlin.

Since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and reunification in 1990, the differences between East and West Berlin have gradually diminished. But both economically and culturally there are still differences between the eastern and western parts of the formerly divided country.

Get a job and cultural insight in Germany

German history is known by most people and contains several gloomy chapters. However, Germany is also known for its way of managing and disseminating history, and in Berlin you will find many monuments and memorials from World War II, just as many museums deal with the subject. In Berlin’s cityscape, history is constantly present in the form of remnants of the Berlin Wall, “stumbling blocks” of brass in the sidewalk in front of houses where Jewish residents fell victim to the Holocaust and much more.

Culturally, Germany has plenty to offer, and the country is prominent in areas such as philosophy, music and film. The size of the country offers great variations in customs and traditions, and you will have completely different experiences in Northern Germany compared to Southern Germany. Northern Germany is generally very similar to Denmark and Nordic culture, while in southern Germany you clearly feel that you are closer to southern Europe. This is also where you will find the famous Oktoberfest, which every year attracts guests from all over the world.

How to find housing and work in Germany

Start from home when you need to find housing in Germany. There are numerous websites and groups where you can start your search – e.g. the website WG-gesucht, where you can find apartments and housing associations, where you live with others in a so-called Wohngemeinschaft. Prices vary, depending on which city you choose, but the cost of living is generally a little lower in Germany than in Nordic countries, as you pay less in taxes and VAT.

Germany is Denmark’s most important trading partner, and therefore you as a Dane will be able to find jobs for Danish companies in Germany. In the larger cities, there are also international environments with many start-ups and jobs in IT, customer service, marketing, etc.

When you arrive in Germany, you must report your arrival to the citizen service. Here you also get a tax ID, which must be used when you have to pay tax on your income and every time you are in contact with your tax office (Finanzamt).

Where to learn German?

If you’re planning to stay longer in Germany, we encourage you to learn the language, to get more into their customs and traditions, plus they will appreciate your efforts to blend in. On this website, you can find affordable alternatives to learn German. You can also download apps like Duolingo on your phone and practice anywhere for free.

Typical German food 

Northern German dishes include potatoes and coarse vegetables, sourdough bread, smoked products and open sandwiches. In southern Germany, people often eat dumplings instead of potatoes, and soup is a popular choice.

Of course, the Germans are also crazy about schnitzels, sauerkraut and currywurst, but especially in the big cities, the influence from the rest of the world is also noticeable due to the large immigration that has been to Germany over time. It provides a versatile culinary environment, and especially in diverse Berlin, you can try food from around the world if you choose to live and work here.

Still not convinced about Germany?

Living in Germany is ideal if you want to expand your cultural horizons and have many job opportunities. Especially in Berlin you can get a real big city adventure with a diverse and interesting city, history, and culture. You can benefit from world-class universities, comprehensive healthcare systems, and a strong focus on environmental consciousness.

Germany is also known for its beer gardens, festivals, and vibrant nightlife, providing opportunities to socialise and experience the local culture. Additionally, the country offers a variety of recreational sports, including football, skiing, and water sports, to keep you active and entertained. Berlin also has more bridges than Venice, making it a city of waterways and hidden corners waiting to be discovered. And you know that Germany is the birthplace of the automobile? Take a drive on the picturesque roads of the Black Forest or visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart to trace the history of automotive engineering.

You can also immerse yourself in the arts and culture scene that Germany is famous for. Enjoy world-class opera performances at the iconic Semperoper in Dresden or visit the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. With over 6,000 museums, you’ll never run out of opportunities to indulge your artistic side.

If you are a nature enthusiast you will also be fascinated by Germany’s diverse landscapes. From the dramatic cliffs of the Baltic Sea to the picturesque Bavarian Alps, outdoor adventures await at every corner. Hike through the mystical Black Forest, cycle along the Rhine River, or relax in one of the many parks across the country.