News for expats in Germany

EVG Rail Strikes Germany January 2027: What Expats Need to Know

Germany's EVG union threatens nationwide rail strikes in January 2027. Here's what expats and commuters need to know about the dispute and how to prepare.

iamexpat25 August 2026

New Direct Flights from German Airports Announced for Autumn 2026

German airlines are adding new direct flight routes for autumn 2026. Here's what expats should know about new connections from German airports this season.

iamexpat24 August 2026

Rhine Ferry Services Resume After Heatwave — Cargo Ships Still Struggling

Rhine ferry services have restarted after heatwave-driven low water levels, but large inland cargo ships face weeks more of disruption across Germany's key waterway.

Berlin Senate Services Back Online After Cyberattack Disruption

Two Berlin Senate departments were knocked offline by a cyberattack, restricting public services for days. All systems are now restored, but the incident highlights digital vulnerabilities.

Water Scarcity in Brandenburg: What It Means for Berlin-Area Residents

Brandenburg is running low on water as Tesla and Red Bull expand near Berlin. Here's what residents and expats in the region need to know.

dw_english23 August 2026

AI in German Courts: How ChatGPT Is Slowing Down Social Justice

AI-generated legal filings are overwhelming German social courts, causing delays in cases about benefits, health insurance, and pensions that directly affect expats.

Germany Train Safety Law: EVG Union Threatens Disruptions in 2025

Germany's railway union EVG is pushing for new safety legislation after a fatal attack on a conductor, with threats of schedule disruptions that could affect daily commuters.

Germany's Extreme Summers Are Becoming the New Normal

Climate scientists warn that scorching, dry summers like this year's could soon be routine in Germany — with real consequences for daily life and housing.

tagesschau22 August 2026

News▶ Reel

Everything Changing in Germany in September 2026: Expat Guide

From regional elections to alcohol bans at train stations, September 2026 brings key changes every expat in Germany should know about.

thelocal21 August 2026

Record NRW Wildfire Near Aachen Fully Extinguished After 300ha Burned

The largest wildfire in North Rhine-Westphalia history has been put out after burning roughly 300 hectares in Hürtgenwald near Aachen. Here's what you need to know.

Berlin Government Cyberattack: Could Your Services Be Affected?

Two Berlin government departments are unable to work after cyberattacks. Expats relying on city services or postal vote registration may face disruptions.

iamexpat20 August 2026

News▶ Reel

Berlin S-Bahn Airport Disruption: Alternative Routes to BER Until August

Berlin's S-Bahn lines to BER Airport are suspended until end of August. Here are the alternative trains you can use and how to plan your journey.

Section

Visas

Residence permits, work visas and immigration paperwork in Germany

All in Visas →

Visas▶ Reel

How to Stay in Germany After Graduating: Residence Permits Explained

International graduates from German universities can get an 18-month job-search permit. Here's exactly how to apply and what comes next.

Germany's AfD Firewall Explained: What It Means for Expats in 2025

Germany's centrist parties refuse to work with the AfD, but that 'firewall' is under pressure. Here's what it means for expats and immigrants living in Germany.

dw_english24 August 2026

Immigration policy

Germany Politics 2025: Merz Poll and AfD Euro-Schengen Exit Plans

Most German voters doubt Merz will finish his term, and the AfD says it would leave the euro and Schengen. Here's what that means for expats.

dw_english24 August 2026

Immigration policy

AfD's Chrupalla Calls Climate Change a 'Side Issue' Amid German Heatwave

AfD leader Chrupalla dismissed climate change as a 'side issue' during Germany's extreme heat summer, focusing instead on keeping electricity costs affordable.

AfD Leader Chrupalla's Migration Claims Fact-Checked by ARD

ARD fact-checked AfD leader Chrupalla's summer interview. Several migration-related claims were rated false. Here's what expats need to know about the political debate.

Migrant Shop Owners Strike in Saxony-Anhalt to Protest Racism

Saxony-Anhalt's Refugee Council called a migrant business strike on Aug 26 to protest racism ahead of the state election. What it means for the community.

iamexpat23 August 2026

Immigration policy

Merz Government Pushes Reform Agenda: What Expats Should Watch

Chancellor Merz is calling a cabinet retreat to speed up reforms after the summer break. Here's why expats in Germany should keep an eye on what comes next.

AfD in Saxony-Anhalt Election: What a Far-Right Win Means for Expats

Foreigners in Germany react with alarm to a potential AfD victory in Saxony-Anhalt. Here's what it could mean for immigration, integration, and daily life.

thelocal22 August 2026

Germany Extends Border Controls Until March 2027: What Expats Need to Know

Germany will keep strict controls at all nine land borders until March 2027. Expats crossing into neighbouring countries should know what this means for travel and entry rights.

iamexpat21 August 2026

EU Migration Deal With Libyan Warlords: What It Means for Asylum Seekers

A Der Spiegel investigation reveals the EU is making concessions to Libya's Haftar family to curb Mediterranean migration. Here's what this means for asylum seekers and EU policy.

spiegel21 August 2026

Germany Extends Border Controls to March: What Expats Need to Know

Germany is keeping border checks in place until at least March next year. Here is what this means for expats travelling in and out of the country.

Germany Extends Land Border Controls Until March 2027: What Expats Need to Know

Germany will keep border controls at all nine land borders until March 2027, affecting travel, cross-border commuters, and entry rights for expats and visa holders.

Section

Work

Jobs, salaries, labor rights and finding work in Germany

All in Work →

Foreign Qualification Recognition in Germany: 2024 Data and What It Means for You

Foreign qualification approvals in Germany rose nearly 10% last year, but the overall approval rate slowed. Here's what skilled immigrants need to know about the recognition process.

iamexpat25 August 2026

VW Plant Closure Crisis: What It Means for Workers in Germany

Lower Saxony's premier urges VW shareholders to act as plant closure fears grow. Here's what the crisis could mean for expat workers in Germany's auto sector.

dw_english25 August 2026

How to Make Your Holiday Feeling Last Back at Work in Germany

Back from vacation but already stressed? Experts share practical tips to extend the post-holiday recovery feeling once you return to your German workplace.

How Does Your Salary Compare to Top Earners in Germany?

New government data shows salary distribution across Germany. Find out where your income stands and what counts as a top earner in 2025.

thelocal23 August 2026

Half of Germany's Apprentices Face Mental Health Struggles

The DGB's 2025 Ausbildungsreport finds 1 in 2 apprentices under psychological stress due to money worries, housing costs, and workplace pressure.

Sanifair Workers Allege Exploitation: Know Your Rights in Germany

Cleaning staff at Sanifair facilities report 12-hour shifts, 7 days a week, for ~€5/hour. Here's what Germany's labour law says and how to protect yourself.

tagesschau19 August 2026

Private Equity Moves Into German Bakeries: What It Means for Workers

Financial investors are now targeting Germany's Handwerk sector. A Frankfurt bakery chain was just acquired by private equity — here's what this means for workers.

tagesschau16 August 2026

Germany's Auto Industry Is Cutting Jobs Fast: What Workers Need to Know

Germany's car sector is losing jobs faster than any other industry. If you work in automotive or manufacturing, here's what the data means for you.

dw_english15 August 2026

Bürgergeld in Germany: What Happens If You Miss a Jobcenter Appointment

Missing a Jobcenter appointment as a Bürgergeld recipient in Germany can trigger benefit cuts of up to 30% or more. Here is what you need to know to protect your income.

thelocal12 August 2026

2 Million Workers Underpaid in Germany: Know Your Wage Rights

One in three minimum wage workers in Germany is being paid less than the legal minimum, according to the Trade Union Confederation. Here is what expats need to know.

thelocal11 August 2026

Can You Be Paid for Unused Holiday in Germany? Know Your Rights

German law generally requires employees to take their vacation, not cash it out. Learn when exceptions apply and what your rights are as a worker in Germany.

thelocal10 August 2026

Germany's 'Rente mit 63' Under Threat: What the Pension Reform Debate Means for Expats

Germany's CDU/CSU wants to scrap early retirement at 63. Labor Minister Bas faces pressure to deliver a reform plan by autumn 2025 — here's what expats need to know.

tagesschau6 August 2026

Section

Housing

Renting, apartment hunting and prices in German cities

All in Housing →

Housing

E.ON District Heating Lawsuit in Germany: What Renters Need to Know

A class-action lawsuit against E.ON over district heating price hikes of hundreds of percent has started in Germany. Here's what it means for expat renters.

Subletting Your Apartment in Germany: What the Law Says

Germany's top court ruled against a tenant who sublet for twice his rent. Here's what expats need to know about subletting rules and legal limits.

thelocal23 August 2026

Can Tenants in Germany Install Air Conditioning? Law May Change

Germany's justice minister wants to give tenants the right to install fixed air conditioning despite landlord objections — here is what renters need to know now.

thelocal21 August 2026

Germany May Let Renters Install AC Without Landlord's OK

Germany's Justice Minister wants to give tenants the legal right to install air conditioning and external blinds — a significant shift in renter rights.

dw_english20 August 2026

Berlin Housing Referendum: What Expats Renting in Berlin Need to Know

Berlin's 2021 vote to expropriate 240,000 apartments from large landlords is still unresolved and is dominating the September election debate. Here's what renters should know.

thelocal19 August 2026

Germany May Give Tenants the Right to Install Air Conditioning

Germany's Justice Minister wants to change rental law to let tenants install AC units. Here's what this could mean for expats renting a flat in Germany.

tagesschau19 August 2026

German House Prices Drop in Real Terms in 2026: What It Means for Expats

Inflation is eroding property gains in Germany. Real house prices fell across all segments in Q2 2026, but more transactions are happening and buyers have stronger negotiating power.

iamexpat11 August 2026

Germany's 'Silver Tsunami': More Homes Coming to Market — What Expats Should Know

Millions of baby boomer homes could enter the German property market in coming years. Here's what the 'Silver Tsunami' means for expats looking to rent or buy.

thelocal11 August 2026

Cheapest and Most Expensive Cities to Rent in Germany in 2026

The Greix Rent Index reveals which German cities offer the most affordable rents in 2026 and where prices have risen the most — essential reading for expats apartment hunting.

iamexpat24 July 2026

Where Rents Are Rising Fastest in Germany in 2026: City Guide

Rents in Germany are rising unevenly in 2026. Find out which cities are seeing the fastest increases — and why Berlin isn't even at the top of the list.

thelocal23 July 2026

What Is a Mieterverein and How Can It Save You Money in Germany

A Mieterverein (tenants' association) offers legal advice and landlord dispute support for a small annual fee. Here's how expats in Germany can benefit.

thelocal20 July 2026

German Court Rules: Homeowners Can Install Air Conditioning

Germany's top civil court confirmed apartment owners have the right to install AC units, overruling homeowners' association bans. Here's what it means for you.

thelocal18 July 2026

Section

Studies

Universities, scholarships and degree recognition in Germany

All in Studies →

Teacher Shortage and Record Pupil Numbers Hit Berlin Schools in 2025

Berlin and Brandenburg schools face record pupil numbers and hundreds of unfilled teaching posts. Here's what expat families need to know for the school year.

Financial Help for School Costs in Germany: What Families Need to Know

From school bags to class trips, costs add up fast. Here's every benefit and payment available to families in Germany to cover school expenses.

From War to Workshop: A Ukrainian Veteran Trains in Berlin

A 24-year-old Ukrainian veteran who lost his leg is now studying prosthetics in Berlin — a story of resilience and the integration pathways available in Germany.

tagesschau17 August 2026

BAföG Increase 2025: What Students in Germany Can Expect

Germany's cabinet takes the first step toward raising BAföG student aid. Here's what the increase means for students, including eligible international residents.

tagesschau12 August 2026

Full-Day School Care in Germany: What Expat Parents Must Know

Germany's new legal right to full-day care for first-graders is now in effect. Here's what expat families need to know about access, availability, and what to expect.

tagesschau10 August 2026

Germany Plans Mandatory German Language Tests for 4-Year-Olds in Kita

Education Minister Karin Prien's draft Kita Law would require mandatory German language tests for four-year-olds — here's what expat families need to know.

iamexpat24 July 2026

Germany May Set Age 13 Minimum for Social Media: What Expat Families Should Know

Germany's Education Minister wants a minimum age of 13 for social media use. Around 350,000 young people are considered addicted. Here's what expat families need to know.

dw_english29 June 2026

TUM Ranks Top 50 Globally: Best Universities in Germany 2025

TUM is Germany's only top-50 university in the QS rankings. Here's what expats and international students should know about studying in Germany.

iamexpat20 June 2026

Germany's BAföG Under Fire: Student Funding Cuts and What They Mean

Germany's Research Minister rejected BAföG reform, sparking student protests. Find out what this means for funding support if you study in Germany.

dw_english15 June 2026

Germany's BAföG Reform in Doubt: What Students Need to Know

Germany's planned BAföG student aid reform has stalled due to coalition disagreements. Students hoping for higher support rates face uncertainty ahead of the winter semester.

tagesschau2 June 2026

Editorial · D4U25 May 2026

Best Scholarships in Germany for International Students 2026

From DAAD to Deutschlandstipendium, here are every major scholarship open for international students in Germany right now — with deadlines, amounts, and exactly what to do this month.

Section

Health

Health insurance, Krankenversicherung and the German healthcare system

All in Health →

Europe's 30,000 Heatwave Deaths: Health Risks to Know in Germany

Europe logged over 30,000 excess summer deaths from heatwaves. Expats in Germany should know the health risks, who is most vulnerable, and how to stay safe.

thelocal23 August 2026

Wildfire Trauma in Germany: How to Access Mental Health Support

Germany's record wildfires are leaving psychological scars. Psychologists say PTSD from natural disasters is serious but treatable — here's how expats can find help.

14,000 Heat Deaths in Germany in 2025: What Experts Want Done

Germany recorded at least 14,000 heat-related deaths in 2025, more than any prior year. Experts demand stronger prevention — here's what expats need to know.

West Nile Virus in Greece 2025: What Expats in Germany Should Know

Greece reports 157 West Nile Virus cases and 13 deaths in 2025. Here's what expats in Germany planning Mediterranean travel need to know.

12,500 Heat Deaths in Germany: What Residents Need to Know to Stay Safe

Germany has recorded an estimated 12,500 heat-related deaths this year, with political leaders staying silent. Here's what residents — especially expats — need to know to protect themselves.

thelocal15 August 2026

Extreme Heat in Germany This Week: What You Need to Know

Germany faces intense heat this week, with 'sauna temperatures' expected in NRW and the southwest. Here's how to stay safe and what to expect day by day.

thelocal13 August 2026

EU Bans Forever Chemicals in Food Packaging: What It Means for Germany

New EU rules banning PFAS 'forever chemicals' from food packaging are now in force across Germany and the EU. Here's what changes for consumers.

thelocal13 August 2026

Work Stress in Germany Hits Record High: What Expats Should Know

Stress-related sick days in Germany rose 80% since 2017, reaching a record 119 days per 100 insured workers in 2025. Here's what this means for expat employees.

iamexpat8 August 2026

Ebola Outbreak in DRC: What Expats in Germany Should Know

Ebola cases in the DRC have surpassed 4,000. Experts fear a mutation is fuelling the spread. Here's what this means for expats in Germany with ties to the region.

tagesschau8 August 2026

Germany Calls for National Heatwave Action Plan: What It Means for You

Germany's government is pushing for a national heatwave action plan as temperatures rise. Here's what it means for expats living in German cities this summer and beyond.

iamexpat6 August 2026

Blue-Green Algae Warning at Two Berlin Havel Swimming Spots

Berlin health authorities warn swimmers to avoid two Havel River spots due to blue-green algae. 37 other bathing lakes across the city remain safe.

iamexpat6 August 2026

How to See a Doctor in Germany Outside of Opening Hours

Don't know what to do when your doctor's office is closed in Germany? Here's a clear guide to out-of-hours medical care, from the 116 117 hotline to on-call GP centers.

thelocal6 August 2026

Section

Culture

Daily life, integration and the expat community in Germany

All in Culture →

9 Unmissable Events in Germany This September 2025

From Oktoberfest to art fairs and classical music, September in Germany is full of events perfect for expats looking to explore and connect.

Culture▶ Reel

German Supermarkets Explained: Which One Is Right for You?

From Aldi to Edeka, your choice of supermarket in Germany reflects your budget and lifestyle. A practical guide for expats navigating German grocery shopping.

Dashcams and Doorbell Cameras in Germany: What You Need to Know

Germany's privacy laws strictly regulate dashcams and doorbell cameras. Here's what expats need to know to stay legal at home and on the road.

thelocal24 August 2026

Germany Defends Bauhaus Heritage From Far-Right AfD Attacks

Germany's culture minister and major art institutions rally to defend the iconic Bauhaus school after far-right AfD criticism. Here's why it matters for culture in Germany.

thelocal22 August 2026

Bauhaus Manifesto 2025: What Germany's Cultural Alliance Means for Expats

A broad German cultural alliance has launched the Bauhaus Manifesto ahead of the Saxony-Anhalt election, backing artistic freedom and openness. Here's why it matters.

Is Berlin Still Worth It? What Expats Should Know in 2025

A new survey finds fewer than 1 in 3 Germans consider Berlin 'fascinating.' Here's what the capital's declining appeal means for expats living or planning to move there.

Culture▶ Reel

From Refugee to European Champion: The Amanal Petros Story

Amanal Petros fled to Germany as a teenager and is now a European Athletics Champion. His journey is an inspiring story of integration, resilience, and belonging.

dw_english20 August 2026

Hamburg Named One of the World's Best Canal Cities by NYT

The New York Times has ranked Hamburg among the world's top canal cities, shining a global spotlight on one of Germany's most expat-friendly urban destinations.

iamexpat17 August 2026

Culture▶ Reel

How to Get a Kleingarten in Germany: Costs, Rules and Waiting Lists

A Kleingarten is a beloved German institution — and expats can apply too. Here's how the allotment system works, what it costs, and how to get on the waiting list.

thelocal17 August 2026

Mariä Himmelfahrt in Germany: What Expats Need to Know

August 15 is a public holiday in Bavaria and Saarland. Shops close, offices shut, and Bavarians bless flower bouquets. Here's what expats need to plan ahead.

thelocal16 August 2026

Which German State Is Most Hospitable? What Expats Should Know

A new survey ranks Germany's most hospitable states, and a popular stereotype gets debunked. Here's what expats can learn about regional culture in Germany.

thelocal16 August 2026

Berlin Rave the Planet 2025: High Security After Pride Attack

Berlin's Rave the Planet went ahead under tight security following a deadly attack at a Pride event. Here's what expats and visitors need to know about safety.

dw_english16 August 2026

Section

Economy

The economy, jobs market, prices and cost of living in Germany

All in Economy →

VW Crisis: What the Volkswagen Collapse Means for Workers in Germany

VW's CEO calls the situation 'more than critical'. Potential plant closures and mass layoffs could affect hundreds of thousands of workers across Germany.

Germany Secures More Norwegian Gas: What It Means for Your Heating Bills

Uniper signs a major long-term gas deal with Norway's Equinor, aiming to stabilise Germany's energy supply — and potentially your future heating costs.

tagesschau25 August 2026

Germany's 2027 Budget Cuts: What They Mean for the Music Industry

Germany's 2027 federal budget includes cuts to cultural funding. Here's what that means for the music sector and expats working in the arts.

tagesschau25 August 2026

EU Windfall Tax on Energy Firms: What It Could Mean for Bills in Germany

Six EU countries want a windfall tax on energy firms profiting from the Middle East conflict. Here's what it could mean for energy costs in Germany.

thelocal24 August 2026

Germany Pushes Windfall Tax on Oil Firms as Fuel Prices Surge

Finance Minister Klingbeil wants to tax oil companies' excess profits as fuel prices rise due to the Iran conflict. Here's what it means for your wallet in Germany.

Aldi vs Lidl Price War: What It Means for Your Grocery Bill in Germany

Aldi and Lidl are fighting for the lowest prices in Germany. Here's how the price war affects your weekly shopping and which strategy saves you more money.

Germany Gas Storage 2025: What Low Levels Mean for Your Energy Bills

Germany's gas storage is only 50% full with winter approaching. Here's what that means for energy prices and heating costs for expats in Germany.

Germany's Gas Storage at 50%: What It Means for Your Heating Bills

Germany's gas reserves are only half full with winter approaching. Here's what low storage levels could mean for heating costs and energy prices for residents.

dw_english21 August 2026

Germany's AWO Proposes Social Benefit Reform: What It Means for You

The Arbeiterwohlfahrt wants to simplify Germany's social benefits and introduce an 'Erwerbsbooster' to reduce poverty. Here's what expats should know.

tagesschau20 August 2026

Germany May Scrap Early Retirement at 63: What Expats Should Know

Germany is debating scrapping the 'Rente mit 63' early retirement scheme. Here's what this pension reform could mean for foreign workers and long-term residents.

thelocal19 August 2026

New EU Banking Law: What It Means for Foreigners in Germany

A new EU directive affects foreigners in Germany with non-EU bank accounts. Here's what has changed, who is impacted, and what you should do now.

thelocal19 August 2026