From more money for many public sector workers to a USB-C obligation for new laptops to a new fuel price rule and the Easter holiday weekend, here's a look at the big changes coming to Germany this April.
Many newcomers to Germany find that making friends is one of the most challenging parts of settling in. We asked our readers to share their experiences – and their top tips on making new connections in the country.
From cherry blossoms and white asparagus to rock festivals, folk fairs and folklore, April in Germany is packed with reasons to get out and explore – whatever the weather decides to do.
When someone dies, it’s hard enough to find the words in English – let alone in German. If you’re learning the language, these simple phrases can help you express your condolences with confidence.
In 2025, people born outside the European Union made up about 10 percent of the EU’s 450 million population. But which countries have the largest share of foreign-born residents?
From language challenges to EC‑cards and FATCA headaches, foreign residents share what really works – and what doesn’t – when it comes to banking in Germany.
Germany doesn’t just offer dietary advice – it actually publishes ten weekly meal plans designed to show residents how to eat. In the finest traditions of intrepid journalism, The Local's Tom Pugh decided to investigate.
Two parties are neck and neck ahead of Sunday’s state election in Germany’s most famous wine region. With education, infrastructure and immigration on the agenda, the outcome in Rhineland‑Palatinate could reshape politics far beyond Mainz.
If you're taking the German citizenship test, you'll be hit with a random selection of questions on anything from former German chancellors to returning a faulty TV. Here are some of the questions I faced - and some tips for preparing for the unexpected.
Foraging for edible plants can be a fun way to connect with Germany's nature and traditions. Here are some of the herbs you can find, harvest and eat in spring.
Germany has around 10,700 mayors, and many of these posts are not strictly limited to German nationals. So who can stand for mayor in a German city, and what does the job involve?
From thriving businesses and pubs to dance schools, opera singers and education facilities, the Irish community in Germany is wide and far-reaching. But who are they and where do they live?
When do you actually need to file a tax return in Germany, and when can you safely skip it? The Local spoke to a tax lawyer to unpack exactly when filing pays off for foreign residents.
In Germany, utility bills typically account for almost a quarter of total rent. These 'Nebenkosten' are often complex, settled retrospectively and vary widely by region and building – which makes careful checking essential.
From Munich to Berlin, nine German universities and one consortium have been confirmed as 'Universities of Excellence'. Here’s what the title means – and what makes each institution stand out.
German tipping culture, with its traditional rhythms of rewarding excellent service or rounding up is being turned on its head by the arrival of the cashier’s tip screen. Here's how basic transactions are changing.
In most cases foreigners in Germany need to live in the country for five years and have B1 level language skills before they are qualified for permanent residency, but there are exceptions for certain groups, like skilled workers.
Municipal and district elections were held across the state of Bavaria on Sunday. Run-off elections will go forward in Munich and several other large cities where legacy party candidates have seen their support slip.
As the days get longer and temperatures rise, people in Germany look forward to getting out and about again. Here's our pick of the best events to help you defrost and shake off the winter blues.
Fuel prices are rising, flights are being disrupted and security tightened. As lethal conflict between Iran and Israel and the US escalates, here’s a look at how the war will affect life in Germany.
From succulent Weißwurst to hearty Käsespätzle, Bavarian cooking is known for giving German favourites a unique alpine twist. These 10 dishes should be on anyone's lists of must-tries while visiting the region.
If you’re a legal resident in Germany and plan to travel to other European Union countries, it’s worth understanding what you are – and are not – covered for when things go wrong abroad.
