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Chapter 1 of 15

Why Germany?

Economy, proximity, culture, pros and cons vs. the Netherlands

Summary

Germany is Europe's largest economy and the Netherlands' most important trading partner. More than 100,000 Dutch nationals live there permanently. The country attracts people with its strong labor market, excellent infrastructure, affordable housing (outside major cities), and rich cultural tradition. Germany is close — you can drive from the Randstad to the Ruhr area, Dusseldorf, or Cologne in 2-4 hours. But emigrating to Germany requires adapting to a bureaucratic culture, a different work mentality, and a language you truly need to speak.

What you need to know

Economy and labor market

Germany has an unemployment rate of around 3-4%, one of the lowest in Europe. The country faces a structural shortage of skilled workers (Fachkraftemangel) in sectors like IT, healthcare, construction, engineering, and logistics. The gross minimum wage is EUR 12.82 per hour (2025), significantly higher than in many other EU countries. Germany is home to global companies like Siemens, BMW, Volkswagen, SAP, Bosch, and BASF. The Mittelstand — the powerful small and medium-sized business sector — is the backbone of the economy and offers excellent employment.

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2. Regions

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Knowledge Base

Glossary
  • Anmeldung (Address Registration)

    The mandatory address registration at the BĂĽrgeramt within 14 days of moving. Without Anmeldung you cannot open a bank account, sign an employment contract or pay taxes in Germany.

  • Meldebescheinigung (Registration Certificate)

    Proof of your Anmeldung. You need this document for almost everything: bank account, tax number, health insurance, employment contract. Keep it safe!

  • BĂĽrgeramt (Citizens Office)

    The citizens office where you register your address, request identity documents and handle other administrative matters. Always make an appointment — without a Termin you will not be served.

  • Steuer-ID (Tax Identification Number)

    Your personal tax identification number, automatically assigned after your Anmeldung. Your employer needs this number. It arrives by mail — takes 2-4 weeks.

  • Finanzamt (Tax Office)

    The local tax office. Here you register as a taxpayer, file your Steuererklärung (tax return) and handle all fiscal matters. Much can be done online via ELSTER.

  • Krankenversicherung (Health Insurance)

    Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Choose between gesetzliche (public: TK, AOK, Barmer) or private Krankenversicherung. Employees earning under ~€69,300/year must be publicly insured.

  • Schufa (Credit Score Agency)

    The German credit information agency. Your Schufa score determines whether you get a rental apartment, can get a phone contract or a loan. Build your score by opening a German bank account and paying bills on time.

  • Rundfunkbeitrag (Broadcasting Fee)

    The mandatory broadcasting fee of €18.36/month per household. Everyone with a registered address must pay, regardless of whether you watch TV or listen to radio.

  • Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (Landlord Confirmation)

    A confirmation from your landlord that you live at the address. This document is required for your Anmeldung. Your landlord is legally required to provide it within 2 weeks.

  • Aufenthaltstitel (Residence Permit)

    The residence permit for non-EU citizens. EU citizens do not need to apply for an Aufenthaltstitel, but must register via the Anmeldung.

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