News for expats in Germany

Violence on German Trains Is Rising: What Passengers Should Know

Attacks on train staff in Germany are increasing. Here's what's behind the trend and what it means for daily commuters and rail passengers.

Heatwave Returning to Germany: What Expats Need to Know

The DWD forecasts temperatures above 30°C returning to Germany this weekend, with a heat dome potentially on the way. Here's how to stay safe.

iamexpat9 July 2026

Deutsche Bahn Invests €50M in Better Passenger Information Systems

Deutsche Bahn is spending €50 million on AI-powered travel info and thousands of new station displays. Here's what rail passengers in Germany can expect.

School Attack in Bavaria: What Expat Parents Should Know

A knife attack at a Bavarian secondary school left two girls seriously injured. Here is what expat parents should know about school safety in Germany.

Germany's Coalition Reform Package: What Economists Say and Why It Matters for Expats

Economist Friedrich Heinemann says Germany's coalition reform package should help the economy, but notes some problematic elements. Here's what it could mean for expats.

Germany News Roundup July 2: Reforms, Fuel Prices and Pride Berlin

Germany's July 2 news includes the coalition's big reform announcement, surging fuel prices after the tax discount ended, and a Berlin station renamed for Pride Month.

thelocal2 July 2026

Summer Holiday Traffic in Germany 2025: When and Where to Expect Jams

Nine states enter summer holidays at once, causing major motorway congestion. Here's how to plan your trip and avoid the worst delays.

tagesschau2 July 2026

Germany's Record Heat Wave Ends: Storms and Temperature Drop Ahead

After a record-breaking heat wave, temperatures in Germany are falling sharply and storms are sweeping across the country. Here's what residents need to know.

dw_english30 June 2026

Shooting at Stade Mother-Child Facility: What We Know So Far

Six staff members were killed in a shooting at a mother-child facility in Stade, Germany. Here is what police have confirmed so far about the suspect and victims.

tagesschau30 June 2026

Germany News Roundup: Heatwave, AC Plans & World Cup Knockout

Germany's record heatwave begins to ease as Greens demand an emergency air-conditioning programme and the national football team faces Paraguay in a World Cup knockout.

thelocal29 June 2026

Deadly Shooting in Stade, Germany: What We Know So Far

At least 6 people were killed in a shooting in Stade, northern Germany. Two suspects have been arrested. Here is what expats need to know about the incident.

Swimming Safety in Germany: 26 Dead or Missing in One Weekend

Germany's DLRG reported at least 26 drowning deaths and missing persons in a single weekend. Here's what expats need to know before swimming in German lakes and rivers.

tagesschau29 June 2026

Section

Visas

Residence permits, work visas and immigration paperwork in Germany

All in Visas →

EU Entry/Exit System 2025: What Expats in Germany Need to Know

The EU's new EES biometric border system is going ahead this summer — no delays. Here's what it means for non-EU travelers crossing Schengen borders from Germany.

iamexpat10 July 2026

German Court Dismisses Border Pushback Case on Procedural Grounds

A Karlsruhe court rejected an Algerian man's lawsuit against a German border pushback without ruling on whether the policy violates EU law.

EU's New EES Border Checks: What Travellers Need to Know in 2025

The EU is pressing ahead with its new Entry/Exit System despite airline and airport warnings of holiday chaos. Here's what the EES means for you.

EU Entry-Exit System: 8,700 Overstayers Caught in Six Months

The EU's new digital border system has flagged over 8,700 overstayers in its first six months. Here is what non-EU expats in Germany need to know.

Le Pen's Rise and What It Could Mean for Expats in Europe and Germany

Marine Le Pen is making a strong push for the French presidency, and her party is already reaching out to Germany. Here's what a shift in European politics could mean for expats.

dw_english9 July 2026

US-Iran Conflict Escalates: What It Means for Iranians in Germany

The US has struck Iran again and Tehran has retaliated. For Iranians in Germany and those with pending asylum cases, the conflict has direct practical consequences.

Merz Bundestag Statement 2025: What Expats Need to Watch

Chancellor Merz presented his government's reform programme to the Bundestag. Here's what the policy statement could mean for expats and immigrants in Germany.

Germany News Roundup: AfD Leaders, Cologne Pride and Berlin's Population High

AfD re-elects leaders amid protests, Cologne Pride hits record attendance amid safety concerns, and Berlin tops 3.7 million residents. Here's what it means for expats.

Germany Plans to Restrict Freedom of Information — What Expats Need to Know

Germany's government wants to overhaul its Freedom of Information Act, making document requests harder and potentially barring some foreign residents from access.

Germany Plans to Restrict Freedom of Information: What Expats Should Know

Germany's coalition wants to tighten freedom of information rules, requiring justification for all requests and limiting who can apply. Here's what it means for expats.

Migrants Living Under Paris Metro Tracks: What It Tells Us About EU Asylum Policy

Around 900 migrants are living under Paris's Metro Line 2 elevated tracks. The situation reflects EU-wide gaps in asylum reception that also affect refugees and asylum seekers in Germany.

EPP and Far-Right Alliances: What It Means for Migrants in the EU

The EPP's growing cooperation with far-right EU parties could shift immigration and integration policies in ways that affect expats and migrants across Germany and the bloc.

Section

Work

Jobs, salaries, labor rights and finding work in Germany

All in Work →

VW Restructuring Threat and Train Safety Verdict: Germany This Week

A man is jailed for killing a train conductor in Germany, while VW bosses plan major restructuring and unions push back. Here's what expat workers need to know.

VW Cost-Cutting Plans: What Expat Workers in Germany Need to Know

Volkswagen's supervisory board met on major restructuring plans but gave no clear answers on layoffs or closures — here's what expat workers should be watching.

VW Mass Layoffs: What Expat Workers Need to Know in 2025

Volkswagen's supervisory board meets to approve its biggest-ever cost-cutting plan. Expat workers in the VW supply chain face real job security risks.

Germany Sick Leave Reform 2025: Doctor's Note Required from Day One

Germany is changing sick leave rules: employees will need a doctor's certificate from the first day off sick. Here's what every worker in Germany needs to know now.

iamexpat7 July 2026

Germany Sick Leave Rules: What Proposed Changes Mean for Workers

Germany's coalition is discussing tighter sick-leave certificate rules. Here's what expat workers need to know about their current rights and what may change.

Germany Sick Leave Reform 2025: What Workers Need to Know

Germany's planned sick leave reform is sparking debate inside and outside the coalition. Here's what it could mean for employees, including expats and foreign workers.

Germany Tests New Youth Unemployment Programme: What Expats Should Know

A pilot project in Pirmasens targets young unemployed people stuck in a cycle of rejection and withdrawal. Here's how Germany's Jobcenter support works for expat youth.

Mercedes-Benz Workers Strike Back: What the Protests Mean for Employees in Germany

Thousands of Mercedes-Benz workers across Germany are protesting the carmaker's cost-cutting plans. Here's what it means for employees and expats in the sector.

dw_english4 July 2026

Germany's Sick Leave Record: What Expat Workers Need to Know in 2025

German workers average nearly 20 sick days a year — a new record. Chancellor Merz is pushing back. Here's what expats need to know about their rights.

dw_english3 July 2026

Mercedes-Benz Workers Protest 40-Hour Week Plan Across German Plants

Thousands of Mercedes-Benz employees in Germany walked out to protest a plan to raise working hours from 35 to 40 per week. Here's what it means for workers in Germany.

Germany Plans Stricter Sick Leave Rules: What Workers Need to Know

The German coalition wants to tighten sick leave rules and cut absenteeism. Here's what is being proposed, what is still undecided, and how it could affect you as a worker in Germany.

Sick Leave Rules in Europe: How Germany Compares to Its Neighbours

France, Italy and others handle sick leave very differently. Here's how Germany's rules compare across Europe — useful context for expats from any EU country.

Section

Housing

Renting, apartment hunting and prices in German cities

All in Housing →

Germany's 'Gebäudetyp E': Will Simpler Buildings Solve the Housing Crisis?

Germany is drafting a law for a new 'simple and experimental' building type to speed up housing construction. Here's what it could mean for the rental market.

tagesschau8 July 2026

Housing

Germany Plans to Ban Housing Expropriation: What Renters Need to Know

The German coalition government wants to constitutionally ban expropriation of housing companies. Internal SPD critics say it helps the Left Party in Berlin. Here's what it means for renters.

Rent Reduction in Germany When Your Flat Is Too Hot: Know Your Rights

Can extreme summer heat in your German apartment justify a rent reduction? Yes — here's what the law says, what thresholds apply, and how to make a claim.

thelocal28 June 2026

Housing

Germany's Building Modernisation Act: What Renters and Expats Should Know

Germany's new building renovation law is under fire in parliament. Here is what the criticism means for tenants and expats renting or owning property in Germany.

tagesschau23 June 2026

Housing Discrimination in Germany: What Foreigners Face on the Rental Market

From language barriers to outright racism, many foreigners report serious discrimination when renting in Germany. Here's what expats experience and what you can do.

thelocal17 June 2026

Buying a House in Germany: What You Need to Know About Financing

Thinking of buying a home in Germany? From mortgages to hidden costs, here is what every expat should check before signing anything.

tagesschau15 June 2026

Housing

Rural Gentrification in Germany: Life Beyond Berlin's City Limits

Berlin expats and newcomers are moving to rural Brandenburg villages like Gerswalde. Here's what the trend means for housing, community, and life outside the capital.

tagesschau1 June 2026

Germany's Housing Shortage: New Law to Build 1.4M Missing Homes

Germany is missing an estimated 1.4 million apartments. A new federal draft law aims to speed up construction by cutting red tape and easing building regulations.

tagesschau28 May 2026

Editorial · D4U25 May 2026

Renting in Germany 2026: Costs, Rules & Tips for Newcomers

Average rents, Mietpreisbremse rules, Schufa explained, Nebenkosten decoded, Kaution limits, and how to find a flat before you even land in Germany.

Section

Studies

Universities, scholarships and degree recognition in Germany

All in Studies →

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.

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

Editorial · D4U25 May 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

Studies▶ Reel

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 →

Germany Heatwave July 2025: What Expats Need to Know to Stay Safe

Another heatwave is coming to Germany in July. Here's what temperatures to expect, which regions are most affected, and practical tips to stay safe.

thelocal10 July 2026

Germany's June 2026 Heat Wave: 5,000 Excess Deaths and What to Do

June 2026 became Europe's hottest month on record, with Germany reporting around 5,000 excess deaths. Here's what expats need to know to stay safe and access help.

Germany's Healthcare Savings Reform: What Expats Need to Know

Germany's Constitutional Court cleared the path for the Gesundheits-Sparpaket. The reform could affect public health insurance costs and benefits for all residents.

Germany's Public Health Insurance Reform: What Expats Need to Know

The Bundestag is voting on a major cost-cutting reform for Germany's public health insurance. Here's what it could mean for expats and their Krankenversicherung.

Germany's Healthcare Reform 2025: What Expats Need to Know

Germany's Health Minister has revised a key healthcare reform bill before a Bundestag vote. Here's what the changes could mean for expats and their Krankenversicherung.

iamexpat9 July 2026

Germany's Drug Death Crisis: What Expats and Young Residents Should Know

Drug-related deaths in Germany have hit a record high, with a shocking rise among under-30s. Synthetic opioids are fueling the crisis — here's what residents need to know.

dw_english9 July 2026

Germany's Health Insurance Reform: What Expats Need to Know

Germany's government is pushing a health insurance cost-cutting reform. Opposition parties are trying to block it. Here's what it could mean for your Krankenversicherung.

Germany's Health Insurance Reform Softened: What Expats Need to Know

Germany's health minister has scaled back Krankenversicherung reform plans. Public health insurance members may pay less than feared. Here's what changes and what it means for you.

thelocal8 July 2026

Seasonal Allergies in Germany: Why They're Worse and How to Cope

Allergy season in Germany runs March to September and is intensifying. Here's what expats need to know to protect their health and navigate the system.

WHO: Over 1,300 Heatwave Deaths in Europe Since June 21, 2026

The WHO reports more than 1,300 excess deaths across Europe since June 21 due to the record heatwave. Here's what residents in Germany need to know to stay safe.

thelocal29 June 2026

Europe Heat Wave: 1,300+ Deaths — Germany Safety Guide for Expats

The WHO reports over 1,300 excess deaths in Europe since the June 21 heat wave. Germany hit 41.7°C. A practical safety guide for expats and immigrants in Germany.

Germany's 41.7°C Heat Record: Health Tips and What Expats Should Know

Germany hit 41.7°C for the third day running, breaking national heat records. Here is practical health and safety advice for expats living through the heat wave.

Section

Culture

Daily life, integration and the expat community in Germany

All in Culture →

Nazi Ancestors Online: How Germans Are Confronting Family History

Newly digitized NSDAP membership records are prompting Germans to re-examine family stories — and expats should understand why this history shapes daily culture.

Summer Holidays in Germany: How Working Expat Parents Cope

Summer school holidays have started in Germany. Working expat parents share how they manage up to six weeks without regular childcare — and what options exist.

Sunday Shopping in Germany: Could Shops Finally Open on Weekends?

Germany may soon allow shops to open on Sundays. Libraries and bakeries are leading the way — could the full retail sector be next? Here's what expats need to know.

thelocal8 July 2026

Culture▶ Reel

How to Find Free Outdoor Fitness Classes and Sports in Germany

Germany has a thriving free outdoor fitness scene — from running groups to calisthenics parks. Here's how expats can get active and meet people for free.

Sunday Shopping in Germany: Could the Rules Finally Change?

Germany's strict Sunday trading laws may be eased after the Bundestag's economic committee backed retail opening rights. Churches and unions oppose the move.

Culture▶ Reel

Halle Pool Drops German-Language Entry Rule After Xenophobia Outcry

A pool in Halle reversed a rule banning non-German speakers after nationwide criticism. Here's what it means for expats and your rights in public spaces in Germany.

thelocal6 July 2026

Cologne CSD 2025: Over One Million at Germany's Biggest Pride Parade

More than one million people joined Cologne's Christopher Street Day parade. Here's what the event means for LGBTQ+ expats and immigrants living in Germany.

Germany Knocked Out of 2026 World Cup by Paraguay on Penalties

Germany exits the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the first knockout stage, losing to Paraguay in a penalty shootout in Boston.

dw_english30 June 2026

Elbphilharmonie Plaza Hamburg: €5 Entry Fee From October 2026

Hamburg's iconic Elbphilharmonie Plaza balcony will charge €5 for entry from October 2026. The city government calls the change unavoidable. Here's what to know.

iamexpat29 June 2026

Culture▶ Reel

How to Keep Cool in Germany Without Air Conditioning: 6 Practical Tips

AC is rare in German homes — but heatwaves are not. Here are six practical, local-tested ways to keep your apartment cool this summer without air conditioning.

thelocal20 June 2026

Germany's Most Innovative Museums to Visit in 2026

The European Museum of the Year Awards spotlight Germany's best museums in 2026 — from immersive history spaces to cutting-edge digital exhibits worth visiting.

thelocal20 June 2026

4 Reasons Expats Should Visit a German Wine Festival This Summer

Germany's wine festivals are relaxed, local, and often free. Here's why they're worth adding to your summer plans as an expat.

thelocal20 June 2026

Section

Economy

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

All in Economy →

Economy▶ Reel

Are German Companies Really Leaving Germany? What Expat Workers Need to Know

High costs and slow growth are pushing some German firms to invest abroad. Here's what the trend means for expats working in Germany's key industries.

EU Court Rules You Can Cancel Streaming Subscriptions Within 14 Days

The ECJ confirms the 14-day withdrawal right applies to streaming services, but providers can bill you for what you already watched. Here's what this means for you.

Germany Approves €1 Billion Relief Fund for Indebted Municipalities

The Bundestag approved annual relief funding of around €1 billion for struggling German cities until 2029 — here's why it matters for local expat services.

Germany Heat Pump Subsidies: What Homeowners Need to Know in 2025

Germany is cutting heat pump subsidies over the coming years, but lower-income households may get more help. Here's what the changes mean for homeowners planning a renovation.

Germany's 2026 Budget Approved: Higher Defence Spending and New Taxes

Germany's cabinet has approved a budget with major defence spending increases and new taxes, while cutting climate and aid funding. What does this mean for expats day to day?

thelocal8 July 2026

Germany Cuts Heating Subsidies: What Homeowners Need to Know

Germany is reducing grants for eco-friendly heating systems and lifting the ban on new oil and gas boilers. Here is what changes and who is affected.

tagesschau8 July 2026

Germany's 2027 Federal Budget: What €640bn in Spending Means for Expats

Germany's government plans €640bn in spending and €200bn in new debt for 2027. Here's what the budget draft could mean for social benefits and expat life.

Economy▶ Reel

Germany to Cut Elterngeld to 12 Months: What Expat Parents Must Know

Germany's Family Minister wants to shorten parental benefit from 14 to 12 months, push fathers to take more leave, and slightly raise monthly payments.

Germany 2027 Federal Budget: What New Debt Plans Mean for Expats

Finance Minister Klingbeil unveiled Germany's 2027 budget with new borrowing and climate fund cuts. Here's what it could mean for expats and public services.

Economy▶ Reel

Germany's Free 'One-Click' Elster Tax Return: Is It Right for Expats?

Germany's Elster platform now offers a free, simplified one-click tax return service. Here's what foreign residents need to know before using it.

thelocal5 July 2026

Germany Heating Subsidies at Risk: Budget Cuts Explained for Expats

Germany's 2025 budget draft includes cuts to the climate fund, potentially reducing heating system subsidies. Here's what homeowners and renters need to know.

Germany's New Altersvorsorgedepot: What Expats Need to Know

Germany is launching a state-subsidised private pension investment account. Here's what it means for expats building their retirement savings in Germany.