Berlin, Germany

Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa
  Citizens from EU/EEA countries and many other countries (e.g., US, Canada, Australia) can visit Berlin for up to 90 days without a visa.
• Visa on Arrival (VOA)
  Germany does not offer a VOA, but travelers from visa-exempt countries can visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day
• Digital Nomad Visa
  Although there isn’t a dedicated digital nomad visa in Germany, remote workers can apply for a freelancer visa (also known as a self-employment visa) if they can prove sufficient income and meet certain professional criteria. The visa allows stays of up to 3 years for those engaged in freelance work or self-employment.

For visa information, visit the German Federal Foreign Office.

Cost of Living

Accommodation
Berlin’s accommodation market is competitive but relatively affordable compared to other major European cities like London or Paris.

• Budget: Shared apartments or hostels range from $22-$44 per night.
• Mid-range: Private apartments typically cost $76-$163 per night, depending on the area.
• Luxury: Upscale apartments or hotels in central Berlin can range from $196-$381 per night.

Food
Berlin is home to a dynamic food scene, from street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants.

• Street food: Simple meals like currywurst or falafel typically cost $3-$7.
• Mid-range restaurants: A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs $22-$54 for two.
• Fine dining: High-end restaurants may charge $87-$163 for a meal.

Transportation
Berlin has an efficient and extensive public transport system, including buses, trams, and U-Bahn (underground).

• Public transport: A single ticket on the metro or bus costs $2-$3, while monthly passes range from $87-$109.
• Bicycles: Berlin is a bike-friendly city, and renting a bike typically costs $11-$22 per day.
• Taxis: The base fare is $4.25, with $1.96 per additional km.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Germany is of a very high standard. Expats can either join the public healthcare system or opt for private insurance, which offers broader coverage and shorter wait times.

Climate & Weather

• Summer (June to August): Temperatures can reach 20°C to 30°C (68°F – 86°F), with long daylight hours. Summer is the best time to explore Berlin outdoors.
• Winter (December to February): Temperatures drop to -5°C to 5°C (23°F – 41°F), and snowfall is common. The winter months are cold but relatively dry, with occasional rain.
• Spring (March to May): Spring sees temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F – 59°F). The city starts to bloom with flowers, and the weather is pleasant.
• Autumn (September to November): Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F – 68°F), with crisp air and beautiful autumn colors. Rainfall is more frequent during this season.

Landscape

Berlin is a city of contrasts, with modern architectural buildings juxtaposed against historical landmarks and green spaces. It features wide parks, serene lakes, and beautiful gardens. Berliners enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, boating, and hiking in nearby forests. The Tiergarten, a massive urban park, and the Wannsee, a large lake perfect for swimming and picnicking, are among the city’s most beloved outdoor spots.

Things to Do

• Heritage Sites
  • Brandenburg Gate: One of Berlin’s most famous landmarks, symbolizing the reunification of East and West Germany.
  • Berlin Wall Memorial: A historic site that commemorates the division of Berlin during the Cold War.
  • Reichstag Building: The German parliament building with a stunning glass dome offering panoramic views of the city.
• Adventure Activities
  • Biking Tours: Berlin is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. You can explore the city on a bike, taking tours that cover everything from history to modern art.
  • Spree River Cruises: You can enjoy a boat tour along the Spree River to get a unique view of Berlin’s architectural landmarks.
• Nightlife
  Berlin is famous for its nightclubs, particularly in the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district, where iconic spots like Berghain and Sisyphos keep the party going until the early hours. The city has a wide range of nightlife options, from techno clubs to cozy bars.
• Wellness Retreats
  Berlin has a growing wellness scene, with numerous spas, yoga centers, and wellness retreats. Many offer holistic treatments, from saunas and massage therapies to meditation workshops.
• Shopping
  • Kurfürstendamm: A shopping boulevard with a mix of high-end boutiques and flagship stores.
  • Mauerpark Flea Market: Known for its vintage clothing, unique crafts, and street food, this market is a must-visit on weekends.

Lifestyle

Berlin offers a high quality of life, with access to great public transportation, cultural activities, and green spaces. The city is laid-back, and people take advantage of outdoor spaces, especially during the warmer months. Berliners are friendly and open-minded, making it easy for expats to settle in and integrate.

Berlin is a global city, and it’s easy to integrate through language courses, social clubs, and networking events. The expat community is vibrant, and there are plenty of opportunities to meet people through cultural and social events like art exhibitions, live music, and community festivals.

Other Important Locations in Germany

• Munich: Famous for its beer culture, Oktoberfest, and its proximity to the Alps.
• Hamburg: A major port city known for its maritime history and vibrant cultural scene.
• Cologne: Home to the iconic Cologne Cathedral, and a lively arts and media scene.

Rental Accommodations

• Budget: Hostels or shared apartments typically cost $22-$65 per night.
• Mid-range: Private apartments or budget hotels cost around $76-$163 per night.
• Luxury: Upscale hotels or luxury apartments can range from $196-$381 per night

Co-Working Facilities and Costs

Berlin has a thriving co-working scene, with popular spaces like WeWork, Betahaus, and Factory Berlin offering everything from hot desks to private offices. Prices for co-working spaces range from $160-$500 per month, depending on the location and amenities provided.

Connectivity

• WiFi: Berlin offers excellent WiFi connectivity, with fast speeds in hotels, coworking spaces, and cafes. Free WiFi is also available in parks, public squares, and public transportation hubs.
• SIM: O2, Telekom, and Vodafone are the top providers, offering prepaid SIM cards with data packages. SIM cards can be purchased at stores or supermarkets.

Volunteering Opportunities

Berlin has a wide range of volunteering opportunities in fields like human rights, environmental sustainability, and social integration. Local organizations like Berliner Freiwilligen-Agentur and Volunteer in Berlin are excellent places to start looking for opportunities.

Local Employment Options

• IT and software development roles.
• Creative industry jobs (art, design, media).
• Teaching positions in international schools.

Real Estate Investment Options

The real estate market in Berlin is booming, especially in newly developed neighborhoods like Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg. Foreign investors can purchase properties in Berlin, with both residential and commercial investments offering attractive returns. However, the property market is competitive, and regulations around rent control are something to keep in mind.

Start-Up Ecosystem

Berlin is one of the leading start-up hubs in Europe, particularly in tech, fintech, and e-commerce. The city is home to a growing number of incubators and accelerators, such as Techstars and Berlin Startup Academy, which provide resources, mentoring, and networking opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs.

Business Setup Process for Expats

1. Choose a Business Structure: Options include GmbH (limited liability company) or Freiberufler (freelancer).
2. Register Your Business: Register your business with the Trade Office (Gewerbeamt).
3. Tax Number: Apply for a tax number at the Local Tax Office (Finanzamt).
4. Get a Business Bank Account: Open a business account with a local bank for financial transactions.
5. Apply for Necessary Permits: Depending on your business type, you may need additional permits.
6. Get Health Insurance: Enroll in either public or private health insurance.
7. Register with the Chamber of Commerce: Certain business types require registration with the local Chamber of Commerce.

Business Opportunities in Berlin

• Technology & Software Development: Berlin is a thriving tech hub, particularly for start-ups and software developers.
• E-commerce: The rise of online shopping presents significant opportunities in e-commerce, particularly for niche markets.
• Creative Industries: Berlin has a strong artistic and cultural scene, with opportunities in film, music, and graphic design.
• Tourism: With millions of visitors each year, opportunities exist in tourism, hospitality, and tourist services.
• Sustainability and Green Tech: Berlin is increasingly focused on sustainable business practices and green technologies.