Translation

Winter Activities In Germany

by Travel and Leisure

With its snow-covered landscapes, cozy markets, and abundance of outdoor activities, winter in Germany is a truly lovely season. Everyone may find something to explore, whether they’re seeking for a winter sports adventure or a leisurely stroll through quaint towns.

Skiing and snowboarding

There are numerous ski resorts in Germany that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Winter sports fans frequently travel to the Bavarian Alps and the Black Forest because of their well-maintained slopes and cutting-edge lift infrastructure. Another fantastic location for skiing and snowboarding is the Zugspitze, which is the highest mountain in Germany.

Credits: 9GAG

Hiking and biking

Taking a trek or a bike ride through the snow-covered terrain is one of the best ways to see the winter paradise that is the German countryside. There are many routes to explore in the mountains and the countryside, and the calm, serene environment is the ideal place to get away from the bustle of daily life.

Spas and thermal baths

On a chilly winter day, Germany’s numerous top-notch spas and thermal baths are the ideal place to warm up. There are solutions to suit every taste and budget, ranging from conventional saunas to contemporary wellness facilities. Learn more about the best spas in Germany and their prices here!

Ice skating

Ice skating is a well-liked winter activity in Germany. You can skate on the ice in many towns and cities’ outdoor rinks. It’s a terrific afternoon activity for families and a fun way to pass the time.

Christmas Markets

The Christmas market is among the most cherished winter customs in Germany. These markets are the ideal place to find one-of-a-kind items and regional crafts thanks to their attractive wooden stalls and joyful ambiance. There are markets all over the nation, from Frankfurt to Nuremberg, each with a unique personality.

These activities would be so much more fun if you do them with friends. If you are new in Germany and do not know many people yet, here are some tips about making new friends in Germany. Friends will definitely make winters better!

Translation Booka Local

Dating in Germany: A Guide to Finding Love in a New Culture

by Cultural Insights and EtiquetteFamily and Relationships

If you’re interested in dating in Germany, it can be helpful to understand the country’s unique dating customs and traditions. When you are in a foreign country and trying to negotiate strange norms and traditions, dating may be a stressful and perplexing process.

The dating scene in Germany is briefly discussed in this blog, along with cultural norms and expectations, suggestions for meeting and attracting potential partners, and guidance on handling relationships and dating etiquette. This guide will assist you in understanding the local dating environment and navigating your way to a happy and rewarding relationship, whether you are a newbie to Germany or a seasoned expat looking for love.

Cultural Norms and Expectations

If you’re from another country, you might not be accustomed to German dating customs. Keep in mind the following important cultural norms and expectations:

  • It is typical for people to take some time to warm up to one another in Germany because both men and women tend to be more quiet and formal in their relationships.
  • It is typical for people to have their own personal space and to be more autonomous in their relationships in Germany because of the culture’s priority placed on independence and self-sufficiency.
  • People in Germany frequently express their sentiments and intentions honestly and directly because they have a tendency to be more straightforward and direct in their communication.
  • In general, German society is more conventional, and traditional gender norms are frequently observed in interpersonal interactions. Men, for instance, might be anticipated
  • It’s vital to be on time for dates and avoid last-minute cancellations because Germans have a tendency to be on time and value others’ punctuality.
  • In public shows of affection, Germans tend to be more restrained, and it is normal for people to act more formal and reservedly.

Are you interested in finding out what Germans think about dating? Check out our free “Ask The Locals” ebook where they replied to questions regarding dating.

Tips for Meeting and Attracting Partners

If you are interested in dating in Germany, here are some tips for meeting and attracting potential partners:

  • Join social groups or clubs: Getting involved in social groups or clubs that share your interests and hobbies is one of the finest methods to meet possible companions in Germany. Through online resources, community centers, or local meetings, you can locate groups and clubs.
  • Use dating apps and websites: Online dating is common in Germany, and there are lots of options available for the domestic market. You can set up a profile and begin texting or swiping through potential companions in your neighborhood.
  • Being open to new experiences may help you attract possible partners because Germans are often adventurous and open to new things. To meet new people, you can think about attempting new things to do or travelling somewhere new.
  • Germans take tremendous pride in their culture and customs, so demonstrating an interest in them can be a fantastic approach to draw in potential partners. You can think about getting to know the regional customs and traditions or going to cultural events and holidays with your companion.
  • Be assertive and self-assured. When dating in Germany, it’s crucial to be self-assured and clear about your objectives. Germans are drawn to people who are outspoken and confident.
Credits: Slapwank

Navigating Relationships and Dating Etiquette

Once you have found a possible partner in Germany, it is critical to behave respectfully and considerately throughout the relationship. Here are some pointers for handling German dating customs and relationships:

  • Be on time: As was already noted, Germans place a high emphasis on punctuality and expect guests to arrive on time for dates and meetings. Being on time is crucial, as is not changing plans at the last minute.
  • Be honest and up front: Due to the straightforward and direct communication style of Germans, it is crucial to be upfront about your intentions and feelings in a relationship.
  • Respect personal space: Respect your partner’s boundaries and offer them space when they need it. As was already noted, Germans have a tendency to appreciate independence and privacy.
  • Be open to compromise: In order to strike a balance that benefits both partners, it is crucial to be open to negotiation and compromise. Relationships call for compromise.
  • Communication is essential. Any relationship that wants to succeed needs to have open lines of communication. You should also be honest and courteous when speaking with your partner.

Dating in Germany may be a wonderful and enriching experience, but in order to successfully navigate the dating environment, it is essential to grasp the local culture and customs. You can discover love and establish a solid, satisfying relationship in Germany by heeding the advice in this article and being open to new experiences. So, these are some considerations you should make when dating in Germany.

Translation Booka Local

Gift ideas for my German friends

by Cultural Insights and EtiquetteFamily and Relationships

Finding the ideal gift for your German friends may be a fun and meaningful way to express your gratitude and affection. Gift-giving is a significant aspect of German culture. Here are ten gifts you could give your German friends:

Traditional German foods

Germans are renowned for their love of food, so giving them some classic German treats is always a good idea. A variety of German cheeses, a box of German chocolates, or a jar of artisanal honey are a few possibilities.

A gift basket

You can put together a customized gift basket with a variety of German sweets and confectioneries. Items like marzipan, pretzels, or a bottle of German wine or beer are things you might think about including.

A German cookbook

Consider giving your friend a cookbook with authentic German recipes if they enjoy cooking or are foodies. They could be exposed to new foods and flavors in a wonderful way by doing this.

Check out our free “Ask The Locals” ebook where Germans shared their favorite dishes!

A piece of German-made jewelry

You can think about buying your friend a piece of jewelry that was created in Germany since the country is home to several high-quality jewelry manufacturers. A necklace, bracelet, or set of earrings are possible choices.

German-themed décor

You might think about giving your friend something with a German vibe for their home since Germans are known for their love of home décor. A set of beer steins, a cuckoo clock, or a collection of holiday decorations are possible choices.

A gift card for a restaurant

You might think about sending your friend a gift card to a restaurant if they enjoy dining out. You can find their favorite restaurant or cuisine and get a gift card from there.

Credits: Memegine

A gift card for a spa or wellness center

Germans place a lot of value on wellbeing and self-care, so you can think about getting your friend a gift card to a spa or wellness facility. Options may be a yoga session, a facial, or a massage.

A gift card for a German store

Germans are known for their love of shopping, and you might consider giving your friend a gift card for a German store.

Bakeries

Germans love bakeries, well who doesn’t?! You can get their favorite bakeries as gifts or even better bake some yourself if you really want to gift them something more special. You can find some of the most authentic German bakery recipes here!

Translation Booka Local

What can I do to build friendship with my German colleagues

by Cultural Insights and EtiquetteLiving and Working in Germany

It can be rewarding and pleasant to have a friendship with your German colleagues, but it can also be difficult, particularly if you are not familiar with the local way of life. Here are some ideas about how to become friends with your German colleagues:

Be punctual

Germans value punctuality and count on their colleagues to show up for meetings and work on time. Being dependable and on schedule will help you gain the respect and trust of your coworkers.

Get to know your colleagues

You can develop connections and feel more a part of your team by making an effort to get to know your colleagues. Consider asking them about their hobbies and interests or going out to lunch or coffee with them.

Participate in team-building activities

Participating in team-building activities or social gatherings offered by numerous German businesses might help you get to know your coworkers and foster relationships. You might also think about recommending some of your own interests, like hiking or participating in a team sport.

Show interest in their culture

Germans take great pride in their culture and customs, thus expressing an interest in them can promote connections and understanding. You can think about inquiring about regional customs and traditions or going to cultural events or holidays with your coworkers. Check out our free “Ask The Locals” ebook for some tips!

Credits: Boldomatic

Be respectful and polite

It is important to treat coworkers with respect and consideration because politeness and respect are values in Germany. Be conscious of local customs and standards and refrain from saying or making inappropriate jokes.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Ask for assistance if necessary if you are having trouble with a task or if you have concerns about your employment. Your coworkers will probably be pleased to help you and offer advice, and this can be an excellent chance to develop trust and relationships.

Be open to trying new things

Being open to these chances can help you make friends and broaden your horizons because Germans are frequently willing to try new things and experience different cultures. You might think about suggesting activities or events that are outside your comfort zone or going on cultural outings with your employees.

Show appreciation

Germans place a high emphasis on appreciation and acknowledgment, thus expressing your gratitude for the accomplishments of your coworkers can strengthen your bonds with them. You can think about sending them a small gift or note of appreciation in appreciation for their assistance.

Be a good listener

Building trust and respect with your coworkers while actively listening to them and demonstrating an interest in what they have to say can also help you understand more about their backgrounds and experiences.

Have a sense of humor

A dry, subtle sense of humor is common among Germans, and being able to laugh and appreciate a joke can help you make friends and foster a healthy work atmosphere. However, it’s crucial to be aware of cultural variations and to refrain from cracking insensitive or offensive jokes.

In general, building friendship with your German colleagues takes time, effort, and cultural sensitivity. You can create solid, lasting relationships and enhance your experience in Germany by using these suggestions and remaining open to fresh experiences and viewpoints.

Do you want to know more about the German culture to help you integrate? Check out our FREE “Ask The Locals” ebook!

Translation Booka Local

10 Things To Keep In Mind When Starting A New Job In Germany

by Living and Working in Germany

Starting a new job in Germany can be exciting and rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local culture, customs and sometimes language. Here are 10 things to keep in mind when starting a new job in Germany:

Punctuality is important

Germans value punctuality and expect employees to arrive on time for work and meetings. It is a good idea to plan ahead and allow for extra time to get to work, especially if you are not familiar with the local transportation system.

Credits: 9gag

Dress appropriately

Business attire in Germany tends to be more formal than in some other countries. It is a good idea to dress conservatively and professionally, especially on your first few days on the job. Remember what they say, first impression is the last impression!

Learn about local customs and traditions

Familiarizing yourself with local customs and traditions can help you feel more comfortable and integrated in your new job. For example, you should know the protocol for greeting coworkers, such as shaking hands or kissing on the cheek. Here are few things you should know about the German working culture!

Be prepared to work hard

Germans are known for their work ethic, and it is expected that employees will work efficiently and effectively. It is a good idea to be proactive and take initiative in your new job, and to be willing to put in extra effort when necessary.

Respect hierarchy

German companies often have a hierarchical structure, and it is important to show respect to your superiors and follow the chain of command. You should also be mindful of your coworkers’ titles and use them when addressing or referring to them.

Communicate clearly and concisely

Germans value clear and concise communication, and it is important to be direct and to the point in your interactions with coworkers and superiors. Avoid using slang or colloquial language, and be sure to use proper grammar and vocabulary.

Take breaks

Germans are entitled to a minimum of 30 minutes of break time for every six hours of work, and it is common to take longer breaks for lunch or coffee. It is important to take breaks and rest, as this can help you stay energized and productive. And the break time which is compulsory everywhere is not paid. So better take it instead of working for free.

Get to know your coworkers

Building relationships with your coworkers can help you feel more connected and integrated in your new job. It is a good idea to make an effort to get to know your coworkers and to participate in team-building activities or social events.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

If you are struggling with a task or have questions about your job, it is important to ask for help. Your coworkers and superiors will likely be happy to assist you and provide guidance.

Stay organized

Staying organized can help you stay on top of your work and avoid feeling overwhelmed. It is a good idea to create a system for keeping track of your tasks and deadlines, and to stay on top of your emails and other communication.

Overall, starting a new job in Germany can be a rewarding and enriching experience, and by keeping these tips in mind, you can set yourself up for success and feel more confident and comfortable in your new role.

If you’re a new international employee in Germany and do not speak German yet, you can book a local to assist you with language-support tasks like in-person appointments, phone calls and paperwork.

Translation Booka Local

10 Activities You Can Do In Germany On New Year’s Eve

by Travel and Leisure

New Year’s Eve, or Silvester in Germany, is a time for celebration and reflection, and there are do in Germany on many activities that you can enjoy to ring in the new year. Many people, locals and internationals, might make plan to visit other countries in Europe during these festive periods. But for those who plan to spend New Year in Germany, here are 10 ideas for things to New Year’s Eve:

Go to a party or event

There are many cities in Germany where you can go to big New Year’s Eve celebrations, including music festivals, fireworks displays, or balls. These can be a great way to celebrate with others and enjoy music, food, and drinks. Check out your local clubs as most probably all of them have special events with special DJs on this day. You might want to book your tickets in advance just to be safe.

Watch the fireworks

Fireworks are a popular way to celebrate the new year in Germany, and many cities and towns set off spectacular displays at midnight. You can find a good spot to watch the fireworks and count down to the new year with a crowd. Plan your night accordingly if you do not want to miss such a spectacular moment.

Go to a restaurant or bar

One of the activities to do on New Year’s eve in Germany is a simple dinner with your friends or loved ones. Many restaurants and bars in Germany offer special New Year’s Eve menus and events, such as live music, champagne toasts, or DJs.

Take a walk or go for a hike

If you prefer a more low-key celebration, you might consider going for a walk or a hike to take in the sights and sounds of the new year. You can either stay at home and watch the fireworks from afar, or just go out for some fresh air and peace.

Have fun with friends or family

New Year’s Eve is an excellent opportunity to spend quality time with them, and you may want to host a get together at your place or at a friend’s. You can play games, watch movies, or simply spend time together chatting and catching up.

Go to a concert or show

Many cities in Germany host concerts or shows on New Year’s Eve, and you can find a wide range of entertainment options, from classical music to rock concerts to theater performances.

Take a trip

If you’re looking for an alternative way to celebrate New Year’s Eve, why not take a trip somewhere else? You can find a comfortable place to stay and relax for the night or explore the city.

Go skiing or snowboard­ing

If you’re in a region with snow during winter, you may want to hit the slopes on New Year’s Eve. You can take advantage of special deals at German winter sports resorts during the holidays.

Go to a spa or wellness center

If you want to relax and unwind on New Year’s Eve, you might consider going to a spa or wellness center. Many facilities offer special packages or deals for the holiday, and you can enjoy a massage, sauna, or other treatments to help you start the new year feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Have a movie night

If you prefer to stay home on New Year’s Eve, you might consider having a movie night. You can curl up with a blanket, some popcorn, and your favorite films and spend the evening relaxing and enjoying some quality time with your loved ones.

Have an appointment in January that requires German and you’re not fluent yet? Don`t ruin your holidays with stress! Book a local to attend the appointment for you and celebrate New Year with no worries!

Translation Booka Local

How To Spend Christmas Alone In Germany As An Expat

by Travel and Leisure

Being away from family and friends during the holidays can be difficult for anyone who lives abroad, especially in Germany with the cold and grey winters. However, there are things you can do to make the most of the holidays and enjoy them even if you’re alone. We gathered few ideas for you about how you can spend Christmas if you’re an expat in Germany.

Volunteering

You could volunteer your time or offer your services to people who need them. Many organizations, such as charities and churches, are looking for volunteers to assist with Christmas events and activities, and this can be a great way to connect with others and give back to the community. You can also offer your help to a neighbor, a friend, or someone else who might be alone or in need during the holiday season.

Join Traditional German Festivities

If you want to celebrate Christmas alone in Germany, you could embrace German culture by joining in traditional festivities. Germany is famous for its festive Christmas markets. These are a great way to enjoy the holidays and immerse yourself in German culture. You can also try traditional German Christmas dishes, such as roast goose or roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut, or bake your own German Christmas cookies, such as Lebkuchen or Spritzgebäck.

Connect With Your Own Traditions

You can also find ways to connect with your own cultural traditions and create your own Christmas rituals. You might want to decorate your house, cook your favorite meals, watch your favorite holidays movies or TV series. If you’re not able to find any local events celebrating Christmas, you could try contacting other expats or foreigners living in your area, or joining online communities or groups that promote Christmas celebrations in your own language or country.

Invite New People to Your Christmas Dinner

You might want to invite some new people to join you. It’s not fun to spend Christmas alone, so why not invite some friends over to share the holiday cheer? Ask your friends to send out invitations to other expats that they personally know. You could even post an invitation on a community board for your city or town so that interested locals can contact you. You might even make some new friends for your kindness. If you want to save time and money, you could organize a potluck, where each person brings a different type of food. Here are some Christmas dinner ideas you might want to check!

Ultimately, the key thing to doing well at Christmas alone in Germany as an expat is to focus on what makes you happy and meaningful, and to be open minded and willing to try new things and connect with people. Whether you choose to volunteer, embrace local traditions, or celebrate your own cultural practices, there are many ways to make this holiday special and memorable even when you are on your own.

If you’re more of an adventurous type of person, you can check our latest blog on the best places to visit for Christmas in Germany.

Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in Germany

Best Places To Celebrate Christmas in Germany

by Cultural Insights and EtiquetteMusic and EntertainmentTravel and Leisure

It’s finally (almost) the most wonderful time of the year! Whether or not you are new in Germany, you must be planning for your Christmas holidays already, who isn’t?! We made a list of the top places to visit for Christmas in Germany to help you plan your best holidays for this year. From Christmas markets to historical places, we have everything covered in this blog post!

Christmas is more special when celebrated with friends and families. But for most of the internationals in Germany, especially the newcomers, the first Christmas away from home can be really challenging. If you are one of them, you can read our article on how to fight back expat blues in Germany. We hope it helps you!

Nuremberg

Visit Nuremberg and you’ll be able to experience one of the largest Christmas Markets on the planet, attracting more than 2 million people annually and featuring hundreds of unique vendors selling everything from handcrafted gifts to traditional German foods. You can also enjoy delicious smells and flavors of Glühwein, Gingerbread, Wurst, Sweet Roasted Almonds, waffles and so much more in an unforgettable holiday experience in the old town. The Toy Museum and Grand Carousel are particularly delightful in this charming Bavarian city.

Christmas Eve at Berlin Cathedral

Other than its amazing Christmas markets, Berlin has much more to offer for Christmas. Located in the Mitte, the Berliner Dom dominates its surroundings with the Fernsehturm and River Spree in the background.On Christmas Eve, people go to the cathedral to hear heavenly choirs perform. If you want to experience such a serene atmosphere, then the Berliner Dom is the place to be. 

Munich

Christmas is a time of traditions everywhere, but nowhere is this truer than in the city of Munich in southern Germany. With its rich history, Munich has been celebrating Christmas for centuries. Thanks to the conservative nature of southern German cities, they’ve managed to preserve their traditional culture for centuries.

One of the most famous of the Munich Christmas markets takes place at the Old Town Hall square in the heart of the old town. It’s no surprise that the Christmas tree has become one of the most popular sights in the city. You can also enjoy live performances by musicians playing at the Town Hall every day after lunch.

Image credits: iStock

Dresden

Dresden has the largest number of Christmas market stalls in the eastern part of Germany and it also holds the oldest annual Christmas market, dating back to 1434. Located at Altmarkt Square, it’s surrounded by numerous themed Christmas markets that stretch from the main train station to the Albertplatz. Here you’ll find some of the best handcrafted products Germany has to offers, including ceramics from Lusatia, biscuits from Pulsnitz and much more.

Freiburg

Freiburg is an enchanting small town in Germany with an amazing atmosphere throughout the entire holiday season, located at the foot of the Black Forest, but it’s especially wonderful during the holidays, when the festive Christmas market sets up shop in the heart of the historical old town. Here people from all age groups can enjoy a variety of traditional arts and craft products, including glassblowing and colorful wooden toys. There’s lots of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, gingerbread, and sausage with the smells of Christmas waft through the air. You can shop for ceramics, candlesticks, puppetry, holiday decorations, and so much more.

Cologne

With its large population, Cologne also makes it to our list of best places to celebrate Christmas in Germany and it already offers plenty for visitors throughout the entire calendar. During the coldest months, the city remains warmer and less snowy than most of Germany. There are some fantastic Christmas markets in Germany, including one in Cologne which is especially beautiful. The biggest Christmas market in Cologne is located right next to the Cologne Cathedral’s 157 meter tall Gothic tower. At this market, you’ll find everything from handmade Christmas ornaments to gingerbread cookies, traditional wooden toys and quirky Tassen plates.

Not a fan of Christmas? Well, winters in Germany are not the coldest in Europe which is a good news. You can check out these amazing winter destinations in Germany here if you specially love adventures!

Booka Local | Translation services

How To Get SCHUFA In Germany?

by Legal and Administrative ProcessesLiving and Working in GermanyMiscellaneous Challenges and Tips

You’ve probably heard about the SCHUFA while browsing for apartments in Germany. It has a huge impact on our daily life, German, and expat alike. Learn more about what is it, why it is needed and how to get it in this  blog post!

What is SCHUFA?

SCHUFA stands for Schutzgemeinschaft für allgemeine Kreditsicherung, in other words, the German credit score. It shows your creditworthiness, which is calculated from your past financial behavior. A company called Schufa Holding AG collects information from various sources, including bank accounts, debit cards, mobile phones, and others, and creates reports about your financial reliability.

When you register your apartment, open a savings account, get internet access for your flat, or get a mobile telephone contract, you automatically begin your SCHUFA records. Each provider asks SCHUFA for permission before accepting you as a new client and thus leaves a record.

Your credit score doesn’t depend on your employment situation or income; rather, it depends solely on whether you pay your debts on time.

How to get a paid SCHUFA report (BonitätsAuskunft)?

The paid SCHUFA report is called “BonitätsAuskunft”.

Note that most landlords require a recent SCHUFA report. It would be best if you buy one when you first begin searching for an apartment. You can easily get a Bonitas Auskunft by ordering it online here! To buy the paid version of the SCHUFA report, click “Jetzt bestellen.” It costs €29.95. You should receive your BonitätsAuskunft in a few days by post.

How to get the SCHUFA for free?

You can get it free once per year. However, the free version is for your own record only as it contains your personal data. For official use, the paid SCHUFA record must be used. You place an online request for the free report and it will be delivered to you by post. Remember that it may take up to four months before the document arrives.

Here’s how you get your free Schufa: Click here, and you’ll be taken to a page where there are two columns; one column is for free, and it’s labeled “Datenkopie”. Click on “Jetzt bestellen” and you’ll get taken to a page where you need to enter some details.

What is a good SCHUFA score?

A very high SCHUFA is at least 97%, and a good one has a minimum of 95%

You begin with a baseline score of 100% when you first get started.

What determines your credit score?

It is determined by whether you’ve paid all your bills on time and in full. Your previous U.S. (or Canadian) scores don’t affect your German SCHUFA, and you cannot use your American scores to apply for loans. With Germany, you get the benefit of having most, if not all of your bills paid automatically every month by bank transfer, so you don’t need to worry about forgetting to pay them. You should avoid opening too many bank accounts and too many credit cards at once, and switching banks too frequently.

You shouldn’t make frequent uses of your overdraft. Sometimes you may need to overdraw your account. To stay financially sound, it’s best not make it a regular habit.

Who actually wants to know your SCHUFA score?

Unless you opt for an account without the Schu­fa minimum requirements, banks usually check your credit rating before approving you for an account. When applying for a loan, your bank also checks your credit worthiness, and your SCHUFA to find out how much interest you might be charged for that loan. Higher risks for the banks mean higher interest rates.

When applying for a new phone or internet plan, or renting a place to live, you need to be aware that they may check when you applied. These companies will be capable of checking your SCHUFA and determining whether you have any unpaid debt, and if you can trust them as a customer or tenant.

Having problems in communicating with your landlord because of language barriers? We can help with that. Simple book a helper here to do the talkings for you!

Certified translator

Marriage In Germany as a Non-EU Citizen

by Family and RelationshipsLegal and Administrative Processes

If you want to get married in Germany, your application for marriage may become more complicated if you or your partner is not from within the EU, or if you have been previously married. As everything else, getting married in Germany can require lots of paperwork. Learn more about the requirements of marriage in Germany as a non-EU citizen in this blog post!

Requirements for marriage in Germany

Before applying for anything, you must first make sure that:

  • You’re not already married.
  • You’re at least 18 years old (16 with parental consent)
  • You don’t want to marry someone who is related by blood.
  • You’ve been living in Germany for at least three weeks.

Application to registry office (Standesamt)

Your marriage application should be submitted to the registry office in your area where either you or your partner is registered. You need to make an appointment with the registry office and attend the meeting there. Here, they will explain the process, and you’ll get the documentation you need to submit for approval. It would be best if you arranged for this meeting several months before you plan to get married, so that you have plenty of time to gather and submit the required documents. Once the registry office approves the application, you should get married within 6 months or might have to go through the application process all over again.

You may also be required to have your documents translated into German by a certified translator if you are a non-EU citizen. The total cost, depending on the complexity of your case ranges from 60 to 600 euros. The required documents might include:

  • Valid ID (passport/identity card)
  • Official Statement of Residency (Meldebescheinigung)
  • Original birth certificate with parents’ names.
  • Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) (Befreiung vom Ehefähigkeitszeugnis), which can be obtained from embassy.
  • Income certificate (Einkommensbescheinigung)
  • Registration certificate proving you have been resident in Germany longer than three weeks.
  • If you are not a German or EU citizen, a valid residence permit/visa
  • Birth certificates of any children you have had together
  • Affidavit confirming both parties are single (Ledigkeitsbescheinigung)
  • Marriage questionnaire (from the registry office)
  • Certificate of finality of divorce (if applicable)
  • Marriage certificates from any previous marriages
  • Death certificate of the previous spouse (if applicable)
  • Confirmation of name change (if applicable)

Gay marriage in Germany

Same-sex marriage was made legal in Germany in October of 2017. Since then, more that 10,000 same-gender couples have gotten married. The same documents as mentioned above might be required. Find more about the details of the paperwork here!

Wedding ceremony

The wedding ceremony takes place at the registry office. If you want to go ahead with a religious ceremony or wedding reception, you can do so, but this will not have any legal effect. German law considers marriage to be a legally binding contract. Therefore, there is a high degree of importance placed on both parties understanding the legal implications of the event. If either one of you doesn’t speak fluent German, you’ll need to have a certified interpreter there for the wedding.

You can book a certified German translator with us using this link!

German citizenship after marriage

If you marry a German citizen, you aren’t automatically granted German citizenship. However, spouses of Germans may apply for citizenship by naturalization much earlier than others: usually after just two years of marriage. Find more about how to apply for the German citizenship here!