How Much Does It Cost to Move to Germany Best Moving Company

How Much Does It Cost to Move to Germany?

Relocating to Germany from the USA can be a great idea for you if you want to change environment to pursue a new life, seek better employment opportunities, open a Germany branch for your business, further your education, conduct research or training or enjoy retirement. You will have access to one of the best social security and public transport systems in the world. However, you will also pay higher taxes and earn lower salary than you would earn in similar positions in the US.

If you have made up your mind to haul to Germany from the USA, either for employment, education, or retirement, here are some tips to help you prepare adequately for your move and how much it will cost to move to Germany.

Paperwork Requirements for your move

Every country including Germany has procedures to complete before and during a migration process. This section outlines the paperwork that you will need to complete your move to Germany.

German Visa and Residence Permit

As of 2021, a US citizen, you are allowed to travel to US and stay up to 90 days in Germany without a German visa, and thereafter apply for a residence permit. Although there is a yet to be implemented European Union electronic authorization requirement for US citizens before visiting certain EU countries. This can be a much easier way to get your residence permit rather than doing it from the US.

Residence Permit

The Residence Permit allow US citizens to live and work in Germany, after the expiration of their 90 days non-visa limit.

There are two types of German residence permits, namely:

• Temporary Residence Permit: Also known as the standard residence permit. This is required if you are shifting for a limited period such as working on posting in Germany, temporary job, family reunion, education and training, etc.
• Permanent Residence Permit: Like the US "Green Card", allows holders to reside permanently in Germany.

To transit from temporary residency to permanent residency, you will have to meet the following requirements:

• Hold temporary residence permit for at least five years
• Have proficiency beyond the basic German language skills
• Enroll for and pass the German integration course exam. The integration course is 195 per 100-hour module which is paid in advance. The total cost you will need to budget for the entire integration course is about 1,300 euros.
• Prove an appreciable level of financial stability and security to live comfortably in Germany.

You can also apply for your German residence permit from any of the nine German embassy or consulates in the United States. However, note that it takes a minimum of three months to process a residence permit. This is because even though you are submitting your application in the US, it will still go through the German Aliens Authority. It's mandatory that everyone goes through that route.

Health Insurance Coverage

All German residents and including expats are required to get a German health insurance. You will have three options to choose from:

• The public health insurance system: By 2019 figures, all German residents earning an annual salary below 60,750 are mandated to get the public health coverage. The public health insurance covers in and out-patient care from a general practitioner or medical specialist, prescription drugs, pregnancy care, basic dental care, employee sick note, statutory sick pay (after employee's obligation is over. The public health insurance coverage covers for spouses, civil partners and children up to age 23 and 25 for students. Individuals receiving unemployment benefits and pensioners are also covered under the state healthcare system.
• Private health insurance: Can be provided by a German or international insurance company - You can choose a private insurance if you earn above 60,750 euros per year, and you are self employed, freelancer or civil servant.
• Combination of both public and private insurance: As a supplement for what's not covered in your public health insurance policy.

Regardless of whether you are using a public or private health insurance in Germany, you will still pay the state health insurance costs which is split between employers and employees. Once you start working in Germany, you will have to register through your employer, though you have the right to choose an insurer based on rates and incentives offered.

Moving costs and estimate

Public insurance providers charge a flat rate of 14.6 per cent of your gross income. However, there is also a supplemental charge which is an average 0.9 percent of your gross income, to a maximum monthly income of 4,425 euros. You won't have to pay more if you earn more, income and health insurance cost in Germany does not increase mutually.

After registration, the insurance provider will issue you a card with a digital chip that contain your personal data. This card is required to be presented the first time you visit a doctor each quarter.

Opening Bank Account

When hauling to Germany, you will need to set up a bank account to handle basic financial transactions such as renting an apartment, getting a German phone number, receiving your paycheck or conducting business. Setting up a traditional bank account in Germany can be difficult but as new expats, you can consider an electronic bank to start with, and then later open a traditional account once you get all your paperwork sorted. You can also open an internet banking account in Germany right before you leave the US.

The Cost of Moving

Moving abroad, shipping your items using sea transportation

When you factor in all the expenses like shipping cost, custom fees, packing services, e.t.c., the average cost relocate to Germany from the US is around $5,000. People hauling to Germany from the east coast will have to pay a lower price to move to Germany when compared to people relocating from west the coast for example.

If you are moving internationally for the first time, you probably think that you will have to leave most of your belongings behind. If the cost of your international plane ticket is thousands of dollars, how much more could it be to try to ship your whole home? The truth is, moving internationally via shipping container can be more economical than you think. So, how much does it cost to move to Germany when all factors are considered?

Here’s what you need to know:

Shipping Rates

When you move to Germany via sea transport, you can choose either a half-container or full-container. The half-container offers 20 feet of space, and the full-container gives you the whole 40 feet. While you will need to work with a shipper to get a comprehensive quote, container shipping rates to Germany are available online and serve as a helpful baseline.

The transportation of a full container from New York to Germany, you can expect to pay under $3,000. A half-container can be shipped for as little as $1,700. Shifting from any of the cities the West Coast? You should still be able to ship your container for less than $3,000.

Cost Of Moving With Household Goods

One of the first things people ask international relocation services when shifting overseas is whether they will owe customs duty and taxes. Unwelcome surprises at the border can cost you thousands of dollars or force you to surrender prohibited items.

Hauling overseas involves a lot of moving parts and you will need to carefully choose which items to bring and which items to leave behind. Every item that you pack for shipping must be carefully inventoried, with detailed lists describing the contents of each individual box.

The best part is, if you are making Germany your permanent home, you can import your household goods free of custom and border taxes. All you have to do is qualify. To qualify for tax and duty-free imports, you must provide the following documents:

• Official termination for your residence in the U.S. (such as a lease termination or sale agreements for your previous home in the U.S.), along with proof that you lived in the U.S. for at least a year.
• Proof of new residence in Germany (a lease agreement, Einwohnermeldeamt [German police registration], or a letter from your German employer.)

Because the laws governing immigration and customs are subject to change, you should always reach out to your local German embassy for current guidance. This can keep you informed of any changes that may impact your move.

Cost of Importing A Vehicle

If you are shifting permanently, your vehicle can be imported tax and duty-free. (Note: This tax exemption pertains to customs only. Germany has other taxes associated with vehicle ownership that you cannot avoid.)

Unfortunately, for vehicles manufactured for use in North America, modifications will be required to meet German vehicle safety standards. These modifications could be to your steering, headlights, emissions, brakes, or tires.

These modifications can be expensive and must be performed by a qualified mechanic. If you are on the fence about whether or not you want to subject to your car to this modification, look it up online. The results can be quite unattractive and you may even feel that your car has been ruined. You may end up choosing to purchase a vehicle in Germany when you arrive.

Once your vehicle has successfully arrived and been processed through customs, you must register your vehicle in Germany. Vehicle registration in Germany requires:

• Valid Passport or Other ID
• Proof of Vehicle Ownership (free of liens or encumbrances)
• Proof of your New Address in Germany
• Customs Clearance
• Export Permit
• Vehicle Registration from the U.S.
• Insurance Card
• Proof of Roadworthiness and Emissions Testing
• Certification from the German Federal Motor Vehicle Registry attesting that the vehicle has never been registered in Germany

Moving costs of relocating to Germany

What is the cost of living?

If you're a US citizen moving to Germany, you'll be pleased to know that the cost of living in Germany is about 35% cheaper than in the USA. This is because in terms of the economy of basic needs like costs of food, rent, utilities (water, electricity, etc.) , education and other living expenses are significantly lower in Germany than in the USA.

Relevant Statistics

• On average, the cost of shipping household goods to Germany ranges from €2,000 to €5,000.
• Approximately 85% of expats relocating to Germany hire professional relocation services.
• The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in major German cities is around €900.
• Setting up basic utilities and internet services in Germany costs an average of €300.
• The cost of healthcare insurance for expats in Germany averages around €400 per month.

General Facts

• The cost to move to Germany depends on various factors such as transportation, visa fees, and accommodation expenses.
• A one-way flight from the United States to Germany can range from $500 to $1500.
• The cost of a long-term visa application in Germany is typically around €75-150.
• Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a major city like Berlin can cost between €800-1200 per month.
• The average monthly expenses for living in Germany, including groceries, transportation, and utilities, can range from €800-1500 depending on your lifestyle and location.

Three Movers

Moving internationally is a big deal but it doesn’t have to be a terrible experience. Working with an overseas moving company will lighten your load and give you peace of mind. Three Movers offers quality personalized service to make your international move a seamless transfer. Contact us today for your free cheap moving quote.

FAQs

How easy is it to move?

Moving to Germany from the USA is not easy. While you may be able to handle the emigration and customs process on your own, you’ll need the help of professional movers to move your belongings to Germany.

What do I need to know before moving?

Before moving to Germany you should know the German language. Even though 56% of people in Germany do speak English, your life will be much easier if you know German. You can get additional information

Can I Just Move To Germany?

Yes, you can just move to Germany from the US and stay there for 90 days. Then you can get your residence permit after that.

What is the best international shifting company?

Three Movers is the best international haulin company.

Is It Worth Migrating To Germany?

Yes, Germany is one of the best countries to live in. Healthcare and education system in Germany is awesome. Plus, Germany has one of the most stable economies in the world.

What Is The Cheapest Way To Ship?

Keeping your package/belongings as light as possible is the cheapest way to ship to Germany.

What Is The Best Way To Move Vehicles?

Hiring a well-renowned shipping company is the best way to haul vehicles to Germany.

How Do I Move My Pet?

First, you have to take a medical test of your pet. Then you can take your pet with you on the flight to Germany

How Much Can I Import Without Paying Duty?

You can import up to 430 Euros worth of goods without paying duty in Germany.

What do i need to move?

Moving from the USA to Germany involves several steps and requirements. Here’s a general overview of what you’ll need:

Visa and Residence Permit: Depending on your purpose of moving (work, study, family reunification, etc.), you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa before entering Germany. Once in Germany, you may need to convert your visa into a residence permit.

Passport: A valid passport is essential. Make sure it has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of departure from Germany.

Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. You might need to provide proof of health insurance coverage when applying for a visa.

Housing: You’ll need a place to stay. This could involve finding a rental apartment or house before or after you arrive.

Finances: Having access to funds is crucial. This includes having enough money to cover initial expenses, like housing deposits and setting up a bank account in Germany.

Language Skills: While English is widely spoken, having some knowledge of German can greatly help with day-to-day tasks and integration.

Employment or Study Documentation: If you’re moving for work or study, you’ll need documentation from your employer or educational institution.

Background Checks: Depending on the visa type, you might need to provide police clearance certificates or other background checks.

Registration: Upon arrival, you’ll need to register your address at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt).

Taxation and Social Security: You’ll need to understand the tax implications of your move, including any tax treaties between the US and Germany. If you’re working, you’ll also need to be aware of social security contributions.

Driving License: If you plan to drive in Germany, you might need to exchange your US driver’s license for a German one.

Cultural Integration: Understanding German customs, social norms, and local culture can help you integrate more easily.

Remember that specific requirements can vary depending on your individual circumstances, such as your visa type, intended length of stay, and the city in Germany you’re moving to. It’s advisable to research thoroughly and consult official sources such as the German embassy or consulate, as well as expat communities or forums for advice from those who have already made a similar move.

What is the average cost for accommodation?

According to recent figures from Numbeo, you can expect to pay the following per month on rent: €854 for a 1-bedroom, city-centre apartment. €627 for a 1-bedroom apartment outside of the city centre. €450 for a room in a shared flat.