Guides
The German financial system, explained.
Bank account, Schufa, taxes, health insurance, pension, property: in-depth guides for everyone new to Germany. With sources and 2026 figures.
GEZ, Rundfunkbeitrag, and Other Bills Nobody Warned You About in Germany
Germany has bills that don't exist in most other countries. Rundfunkbeitrag, Grundsteuer, Kehrwoche — here's every hidden cost expats discover too late, and how to handle them.
Health Insurance in Germany: What Every Expat Needs to Know
Germany's health insurance system can be confusing for newcomers. Here's a clear breakdown of public vs. private insurance — and how to pick the right option for your situation.
How to Open a Bank Account in Germany as an Expat (Without Getting Turned Away)
Opening a bank account in Germany should be simple. For many expats, it isn't. Here's what actually works, which banks are expat-friendly, and what to do if you get rejected.
Kindergeld, Elterngeld, Kinderzuschlag: Family Benefits Expats in Germany Miss Out On
Germany offers generous family benefits — but many expat parents don't claim them all. Here's what you're entitled to, how to apply, and the common mistakes that cost families thousands.
Private vs Public Health Insurance in Germany: Which One Is Right for You?
Germany forces you to choose between public and private health insurance. One decision, decades of consequences. Here's how the two systems actually compare — with real numbers, not vague advice.
Schufa Explained: Germany's Credit Score System and What Expats Need to Know
Your Schufa score affects whether you can rent an apartment, get a phone contract, or take out a loan in Germany. Here's how it works, what data it collects, and how to check yours.
Buying Property in Germany as an Expat: The Complete Guide to Costs, Mortgages, and the Buying Process
No restrictions on foreign buyers, but plenty of hidden costs and bureaucracy. Here's everything expats need to know about buying a home in Germany — from Grunderwerbsteuer to Grundbuch.
Understanding the German Tax System: A Complete Guide for Expats
Income tax, tax classes, solidarity surcharge, church tax — Germany's tax system is notoriously complex. This guide explains how it actually works, what you'll pay, and how to keep more of your salary.
The German Pension System Explained: What Expats Need to Know About Gesetzliche Rentenversicherung
Germany's statutory pension is the backbone of retirement planning — but is it enough? Here's how the system works, what you're entitled to, and why most expats need more than just the Gesetzliche Rente.
Building Wealth as an Expat: A Beginner's Guide to ETFs in Germany
You don't need to be a finance expert to start investing. Here's how ETFs work, why they're popular in Germany, and how expats can get started with as little as 25 euros a month.
Contact
Talk to us.
Tell us briefly what it's about. We get back to you within one business day to find a time: 30 minutes by video, phone or WhatsApp, free of charge.
- Free first call
- In English or German
- Your calculator results as a starting point
- Reply within one business day