The Berliner Zeitung looked at the results of the latest survey by the InterNations network, which “clearly shows that expats in Germany find many important aspects of everyday life much worse than in many other countries”.
According to the Federal Statistical Office, 11.8 million newcomers live in Germany, including more than 740,000 in the Land of Berlin, or 20.1% of the city’s total population. Most of these people explain that they came for work, for studies or even to follow love… Despite this enthusiasm, Germany arrived in 42e position out of 52 countries in the InterNations ranking for digital infrastructure, administration, accommodation and language. This ranking is based on responses from 12,000 expats.
Fifty-six percent of respondents rated their search for accommodation in Germany negatively, more than double the global average of 27%. Another irritant is the difficulty in making cash payments. In addition, the Berlin daily relays the testimony of a British expat who is overwhelmed by bureaucracy: “I really hate German bureaucracy. Especially the fact that nothing is digitized! It takes forever to get in touch with the local authorities to discuss residence permits and the like.”
The Berliner Zeitung can only note that “Germany is below average – 66% of respondents say they are satisfied with their life in Germany, compared to 72% globally”. Fortunately, there remains security, little violence and the dynamism of the labor market. But even when it comes to employment, there are downsides, since “34% of respondents complain that their employer does not require creativity or unconventional thinking from them”.
You went to live in Germany: how do you feel in the country? What were your biggest surprises? You plan to move to Germany: how are you preparing? Tell us by writing to us at expat@courrierinternational.com and we will publish your testimony.