Expat Wiki - User contributions [en]

Germany/Housing/Electricity

2026-04-03T19:48:10Z

Shuai: /* See also */

[[File:Electricity.meter.jpg|thumb|Electricity meter with meter ID number (marked in red)]]
{{Head
|Electricity Providers in Germany
|Ratings, English
|If you [[Germany/Housing/Rent|rent an apartment on your name]] (and don't sublet), you likely need to '''make a contract with an electricity provider'''. Read here how to find, compare & sign up with one.}}

'''Summary:''' [[#When_do_I_need_an_electricity_provider.3F|Check]] if you need one, [[#consumption|estimate]] your consumption, [[#find|compare & pick a provider]], sign up online.

{{FAQ|

{{FAQ/Item|q=When do I need an electricity provider?|a=

* If you rent an apartment or house '''directly from a landlord'''.

You usually '''don't need''' an electricity contract

* if you '''sublet''' an apartment or room (from another person), or
* if you rent your apartment or room with an "all-inclusive" contract like via Airbnb or similar.

If in doubt, ask your landlord.

}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How does electricity and energy billing work in Germany?|a=

With your (warm) rent (''Warmmiete''), you already pay for energy consumption, like

* heating your apartment
* water heating
* lights of common areas in your house, like Corridor lighting

But for energy in your apartment, used for/from:

* lights
* power sockets
* stove & oven (if electric)
* water heating (if electric)

you need to make a contract with an electricity supplier.

}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How to choose an electricity supplier?|a=

You will need your postal code postal code because prices are different by area. (Use [https://www.google.com/maps/ Google maps] to find it.)

# Find out whether your '''warm water''' is heated by
#* your electricity,
#* or instead by gas or even delivered (district / central heating)
# Estimate your '''consumption''' with the [[#consumption|table below]].
# Pick a '''provider''' or comparison service from the [[#find|list below]].
# Enter your '''postal code''' and '''estimated consumption''' to get offers for you. Key factors to look at:
#* ''Grundpreis'' (basic fee): fixed fee to pay per month
#* ''Arbeitspreis'' (consumption price): what you pay per kWh used
#* bonuses: are often available for new customers (but some are only paid out after a year, so make sure they actually give you a benefit)

}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How to sign up with an electricity provider?|a=

All sign-ups can be done online.

# Pick an offer from [[#find|the list or comparisons of the providers]].
# In the order form, enter
#* the ID number of your electricity meter (it is usually printed on it),
#* the current electricity meter reading,
#* your IBAN [[Germany/Banking|bank account number]] (if you agree to direct debit).

}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How do I get billed for my electricity consumption?|a=

# Based on your consumption estimation, your electricity provider will calculate a '''monthly prepayment rate'''. This prepayment rate will be
#* either deducted from your bank account, if you agreed to direct debit (''Lastschrift'')
#* or you will need to transfer it yourself every month.
# After a year (usually), they measure your actual consumption.
#* If you used '''less''' than your estimation, you will '''get money back''' and your monthly prepayment rate will be '''lowered'''.
#* If you used '''more''' than your estimation, you will need to '''pay the difference''' and your monthly prepayment rate will be '''raised'''.
}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How to change my electricity company?|a=

# Find out the earliest date you can cancel / when your minimum contract term ends.
#* Tip: You can already send the cancellation much earlier. That way you make sure to not forget to cancel.
#
# Pick an offer from [[#find|the list or comparisons of the providers]].

}}
}}

<div id="consumption">
== Average & Ideal Consumption Rates ==

To estimate your electricity consumption, you can go by '''average consumptions per year''' of German households, as shown in the table below. Additionally, '''ideal consumptions''' are shown (if savings potentials are used). <ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-20|url=https://www.check24.de/strom/stromverbrauch/|quote=Stromverbrauch: Durchschnittsverbrauch Strom}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
! Household size
! Average, with electric water heating
! Average, without electric water heating
! Ideal (minimized) consumption
|-
| 1 person
| 2100 kWh
| 1500 kWh
| 800-1300 kWh
|-
| 2 person
| 3400 kWh
| 2500 kWh
| 1300-2100 kWh
|-
| 3 person
| 4400 kWh
| 3500 kWh
| 1700-2600 kWh
|-
| 4 person
| 5500 kWh
| 4250 kWh
| 1900-2900 kWh
|}

<div id="find">
== Find an Electricity Provider ==

You can make a contract with '''any German provider, no matter where you live'''. So even if you live in Berlin, you can make a contract with a provider from Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt, or Munich.

=== List of German Electricity Providers ===

Here are common German electricity companies with their Trustpilot rating<ref>as of 2022-06-27</ref>:

* {{Trustpilot|ostrom.de|5}}   {{AffLink|ostrom|ostrom.electricity}}: English support 🇬🇧, min. term: 11 days<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-22|url=https://www.ostrom.de/faq#what-is-the-minimum-contract-period|quote=The minimum contract period is 11 days}}</ref>, allows prepayment adjustments at any time<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-22|url=https://www.ostrom.de/faq#will-my-monthly-payment-be-adjusted|quote=you can adjust your monthly payment at all times.}}</ref>
* {{Trustpilot|polarstern-energie.de|4.5}}   {{AffLink|Polarstern|polarstern.electricity}}: min. term: 1 month<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-22|url=https://www.polarstern-energie.de/oekostrom/|quote=Welche Konditionen bietet Polarstern? / Bei uns gibt es keine Mindestvertragslaufzeit – du kannst deinen Vertrag immer mit zwei Wochen Frist zum Monatsende kündigen.}}</ref>
* {{Trustpilot|vattenfall.de|4.5}}   {{AffLink|Vattenfall|vattenfall.electricity}}: minimum term: 12 months
* {{Trustpilot|eprimo.de|3}}   {{AffLink|eprimo|eprimo.electricity}}: min. term: 12 months<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-07-01|url=https://www.eprimo.de/oekostrom/strom-kuendigen|quote=Kündigungsfristen bei eprimo}}</ref>
* {{Trustpilot|lekker.de|3}}   {{AffLink|lekker|lekker.electricity}}
* {{Trustpilot|q-cells.de|2}}   {{AffLink|Qcells|q-cells.electricity}}
* {{Trustpilot|lew.de|1.5}}   {{AffLink|LEW|lew.electricity}}: min. term: 12 months<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-22|url=https://www.lew.de/fuer-zuhause/strom/lew-strom-basis-online-natur|quote=Mindestvertragslaufzeit: 12 Monate}}</ref>

=== Compare German Electricity Providers ===

Instead of comparing offers yourself, you can use a comparison service. Enter your postal code & estimated consumption, and get a list of offers.

* {{Trustpilot|www.check24.de|5}} {{AffLink|Check24|check24-electricity-comparison}} (How to use it: [https://www.check24.de/strom-gas/ratgeber/how-to-switch-energy-supplier-in-germany/ Guide in English])
* {{Trustpilot|www.verivox.de|4.5}} {{Link|Verivox|verivox-electricity-comparison}}

== See also ==
* [https://prepareforgermany.com/en/housing/electricity-gas Switching electricity and gas in Germany] by ''PrepareforGermany''
* [https://goodlifegermany.com/en/how-to-germany/for-your-home/best-electricity-providers-germany-2021/ Review of green electricity companies] by ''goodlifegermany.com''
* [https://www.ostrom.de/post/how-you-will-benefit-from-germanys-strompreisbremse-energy-price-brake How You Will Benefit from Germany’s Strompreisbremse (Energy Price Brake)] by ''ostrom.de''

{{Notes}}

[[Category:Housing]]

Germany/Housing/Gas

2026-04-03T19:48:03Z

Shuai: /* See also */

[[File:Gas.heater-controller.jpg|thumb|If this is in your apartment, it is heated by gas.]]
{{Head
|Gas Providers in Germany
|FAQ, List, Comparison
|If your apartment is heated by gas & you don't sublet from someone but [[Germany/Housing/Rent|rent an apartment on your name]], you likely need '''make a contract with a gas provider'''. Read here how to find, compare & sign up with one.

Note that you can make a contract with '''any German provider, no matter where you live'''. So even if you live in Berlin, you can make a contract with a provider from Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt, or Munich.
}}

{{FAQ|
{{FAQ/Item|q= When do I need a gas provider? |a=

* If you rent (or buy) an apartment or house '''directly from a landlord'''
* and your place uses local gas heating. To find out
** ask your landlord, or
** check if you have the things seen in the photo above in your flat.

You usually '''don't need''' a gas contract

* if you rent your apartment or room with an "all-inclusive" contract like via Airbnb or similar.

If in doubt, ask your landlord.

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= How to make a contract with a gas supplier? |a=

# Estimate your '''consumption''' with the [[#consumption|table below]].
# Pick a '''provider''' or comparison service from the [[#find|list below]].
# Enter your '''postal code''' and '''estimated consumption''' to get offers for you.

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= How do I get billed for my gas consumption? |a=
* Based on your consumption estimation, they calculate a '''monthly prepayment rate''' for you. Pay that rate now every month.
* After a year (usually), they measure your actual consumption.
** If you used '''less''' than your estimation, you will '''get money back''' and your monthly prepayment rate will be '''lowered'''.
** If you used '''more''' than your estimation, you will need to '''pay the difference''' and your monthly prepayment rate will be '''raised'''.
}}
}}

<div id="consumption">
== Average Consumption Rates ==

To estimate your gas consumption, you can go by '''average consumptions per year'''<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-27|url=https://www.check24.de/gas/gasverbrauch/|quote=Durchschnittlicher Gasverbrauch}}</ref> of German households, as shown in the tables below. There are average numbers

* for water heating by number of people in the household
* plus by apartment size.

{| class="wikitable"
! Household size
! Average gas consumption for water heating
|-
| 1 person
| 600-800 kWh
|-
| 2 person
| 1200-1600 kWh
|-
| 3 person
| 1800-2400 kWh
|-
| 4 person
| 2400-3200 kWh
|}

{| class="wikitable"
! Apartment size
! Average gas consumption for room heating
|-
| 30m²
| 3,800 kWh
|-
| 50m²
| 5,000 kWh
|-
| 100m²
| 12,000 kWh
|-
| 150m²
| 18,000 kWh
|-
| terrace house
| 20,000 kWh
|-
| single-family house
| 35,000 kWh
|}

== Find a Gas Provider ==

=== List of German Gas Providers ===

Common German gas providers with their '''Trustpilot rating''':

* {{Trustpilot|vattenfall.de|4.5}} {{AffLink|Vattenfall|vattenfall.gas}}
* {{Trustpilot|lekker.de|3}} {{AffLink|lekker|lekker.gas}}
* {{Trustpilot|polarstern-energie.de|3}} {{AffLink|Polarstern|polarstern.gas}}
* {{Trustpilot|eprimo.de|3}} {{AffLink|eprimo|eprimo.gas}} – [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_UcL4WTyCE Video guide on how to sign up]
* {{Trustpilot|lew.de|1.5}} {{AffLink|LEW|lew.gas}}

=== Compare German Gas Providers ===

Instead of comparing offers yourself, you can use a comparison service. Enter your postal code & estimated consumption, and get a list of offers.

* {{Trustpilot|www.check24.de|5}} {{AffLink|Check24 Gas Comparison|check24-gas-comparison}}

== See also ==
* [https://prepareforgermany.com/en/housing/electricity-gas/switch-provider Switching electricity and gas in Germany] by ''PrepareforGermany''

{{Notes}}

[[Category:Housing]]

Germany/Housing/Gas

2026-03-03T12:43:46Z

Shuai: New source added

[[File:Gas.heater-controller.jpg|thumb|If this is in your apartment, it is heated by gas.]]
{{Head
|Gas Providers in Germany
|FAQ, List, Comparison
|If your apartment is heated by gas & you don't sublet from someone but [[Germany/Housing/Rent|rent an apartment on your name]], you likely need '''make a contract with a gas provider'''. Read here how to find, compare & sign up with one.

Note that you can make a contract with '''any German provider, no matter where you live'''. So even if you live in Berlin, you can make a contract with a provider from Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt, or Munich.
}}

{{FAQ|
{{FAQ/Item|q= When do I need a gas provider? |a=

* If you rent (or buy) an apartment or house '''directly from a landlord'''
* and your place uses local gas heating. To find out
** ask your landlord, or
** check if you have the things seen in the photo above in your flat.

You usually '''don't need''' a gas contract

* if you rent your apartment or room with an "all-inclusive" contract like via Airbnb or similar.

If in doubt, ask your landlord.

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= How to make a contract with a gas supplier? |a=

# Estimate your '''consumption''' with the [[#consumption|table below]].
# Pick a '''provider''' or comparison service from the [[#find|list below]].
# Enter your '''postal code''' and '''estimated consumption''' to get offers for you.

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= How do I get billed for my gas consumption? |a=
* Based on your consumption estimation, they calculate a '''monthly prepayment rate''' for you. Pay that rate now every month.
* After a year (usually), they measure your actual consumption.
** If you used '''less''' than your estimation, you will '''get money back''' and your monthly prepayment rate will be '''lowered'''.
** If you used '''more''' than your estimation, you will need to '''pay the difference''' and your monthly prepayment rate will be '''raised'''.
}}
}}

<div id="consumption">
== Average Consumption Rates ==

To estimate your gas consumption, you can go by '''average consumptions per year'''<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-27|url=https://www.check24.de/gas/gasverbrauch/|quote=Durchschnittlicher Gasverbrauch}}</ref> of German households, as shown in the tables below. There are average numbers

* for water heating by number of people in the household
* plus by apartment size.

{| class="wikitable"
! Household size
! Average gas consumption for water heating
|-
| 1 person
| 600-800 kWh
|-
| 2 person
| 1200-1600 kWh
|-
| 3 person
| 1800-2400 kWh
|-
| 4 person
| 2400-3200 kWh
|}

{| class="wikitable"
! Apartment size
! Average gas consumption for room heating
|-
| 30m²
| 3,800 kWh
|-
| 50m²
| 5,000 kWh
|-
| 100m²
| 12,000 kWh
|-
| 150m²
| 18,000 kWh
|-
| terrace house
| 20,000 kWh
|-
| single-family house
| 35,000 kWh
|}

== Find a Gas Provider ==

=== List of German Gas Providers ===

Common German gas providers with their '''Trustpilot rating''':

* {{Trustpilot|vattenfall.de|4.5}} {{AffLink|Vattenfall|vattenfall.gas}}
* {{Trustpilot|lekker.de|3}} {{AffLink|lekker|lekker.gas}}
* {{Trustpilot|polarstern-energie.de|3}} {{AffLink|Polarstern|polarstern.gas}}
* {{Trustpilot|eprimo.de|3}} {{AffLink|eprimo|eprimo.gas}} – [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_UcL4WTyCE Video guide on how to sign up]
* {{Trustpilot|lew.de|1.5}} {{AffLink|LEW|lew.gas}}

=== Compare German Gas Providers ===

Instead of comparing offers yourself, you can use a comparison service. Enter your postal code & estimated consumption, and get a list of offers.

* {{Trustpilot|www.check24.de|5}} {{AffLink|Check24 Gas Comparison|check24-gas-comparison}}

== See also ==
* [https://prepareforgermany.com/en/housing/switch-electricity-gas Switching electricity and gas in Germany] by ''PrepareforGermany''

{{Notes}}

[[Category:Housing]]

Germany/Housing/Electricity

2026-03-03T12:40:21Z

Shuai: New source added

[[File:Electricity.meter.jpg|thumb|Electricity meter with meter ID number (marked in red)]]
{{Head
|Electricity Providers in Germany
|Ratings, English
|If you [[Germany/Housing/Rent|rent an apartment on your name]] (and don't sublet), you likely need to '''make a contract with an electricity provider'''. Read here how to find, compare & sign up with one.}}

'''Summary:''' [[#When_do_I_need_an_electricity_provider.3F|Check]] if you need one, [[#consumption|estimate]] your consumption, [[#find|compare & pick a provider]], sign up online.

{{FAQ|

{{FAQ/Item|q=When do I need an electricity provider?|a=

* If you rent an apartment or house '''directly from a landlord'''.

You usually '''don't need''' an electricity contract

* if you '''sublet''' an apartment or room (from another person), or
* if you rent your apartment or room with an "all-inclusive" contract like via Airbnb or similar.

If in doubt, ask your landlord.

}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How does electricity and energy billing work in Germany?|a=

With your (warm) rent (''Warmmiete''), you already pay for energy consumption, like

* heating your apartment
* water heating
* lights of common areas in your house, like Corridor lighting

But for energy in your apartment, used for/from:

* lights
* power sockets
* stove & oven (if electric)
* water heating (if electric)

you need to make a contract with an electricity supplier.

}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How to choose an electricity supplier?|a=

You will need your postal code postal code because prices are different by area. (Use [https://www.google.com/maps/ Google maps] to find it.)

# Find out whether your '''warm water''' is heated by
#* your electricity,
#* or instead by gas or even delivered (district / central heating)
# Estimate your '''consumption''' with the [[#consumption|table below]].
# Pick a '''provider''' or comparison service from the [[#find|list below]].
# Enter your '''postal code''' and '''estimated consumption''' to get offers for you. Key factors to look at:
#* ''Grundpreis'' (basic fee): fixed fee to pay per month
#* ''Arbeitspreis'' (consumption price): what you pay per kWh used
#* bonuses: are often available for new customers (but some are only paid out after a year, so make sure they actually give you a benefit)

}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How to sign up with an electricity provider?|a=

All sign-ups can be done online.

# Pick an offer from [[#find|the list or comparisons of the providers]].
# In the order form, enter
#* the ID number of your electricity meter (it is usually printed on it),
#* the current electricity meter reading,
#* your IBAN [[Germany/Banking|bank account number]] (if you agree to direct debit).

}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How do I get billed for my electricity consumption?|a=

# Based on your consumption estimation, your electricity provider will calculate a '''monthly prepayment rate'''. This prepayment rate will be
#* either deducted from your bank account, if you agreed to direct debit (''Lastschrift'')
#* or you will need to transfer it yourself every month.
# After a year (usually), they measure your actual consumption.
#* If you used '''less''' than your estimation, you will '''get money back''' and your monthly prepayment rate will be '''lowered'''.
#* If you used '''more''' than your estimation, you will need to '''pay the difference''' and your monthly prepayment rate will be '''raised'''.
}}
{{FAQ/Item|q=How to change my electricity company?|a=

# Find out the earliest date you can cancel / when your minimum contract term ends.
#* Tip: You can already send the cancellation much earlier. That way you make sure to not forget to cancel.
#
# Pick an offer from [[#find|the list or comparisons of the providers]].

}}
}}

<div id="consumption">
== Average & Ideal Consumption Rates ==

To estimate your electricity consumption, you can go by '''average consumptions per year''' of German households, as shown in the table below. Additionally, '''ideal consumptions''' are shown (if savings potentials are used). <ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-20|url=https://www.check24.de/strom/stromverbrauch/|quote=Stromverbrauch: Durchschnittsverbrauch Strom}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
! Household size
! Average, with electric water heating
! Average, without electric water heating
! Ideal (minimized) consumption
|-
| 1 person
| 2100 kWh
| 1500 kWh
| 800-1300 kWh
|-
| 2 person
| 3400 kWh
| 2500 kWh
| 1300-2100 kWh
|-
| 3 person
| 4400 kWh
| 3500 kWh
| 1700-2600 kWh
|-
| 4 person
| 5500 kWh
| 4250 kWh
| 1900-2900 kWh
|}

<div id="find">
== Find an Electricity Provider ==

You can make a contract with '''any German provider, no matter where you live'''. So even if you live in Berlin, you can make a contract with a provider from Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt, or Munich.

=== List of German Electricity Providers ===

Here are common German electricity companies with their Trustpilot rating<ref>as of 2022-06-27</ref>:

* {{Trustpilot|ostrom.de|5}}   {{AffLink|ostrom|ostrom.electricity}}: English support 🇬🇧, min. term: 11 days<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-22|url=https://www.ostrom.de/faq#what-is-the-minimum-contract-period|quote=The minimum contract period is 11 days}}</ref>, allows prepayment adjustments at any time<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-22|url=https://www.ostrom.de/faq#will-my-monthly-payment-be-adjusted|quote=you can adjust your monthly payment at all times.}}</ref>
* {{Trustpilot|polarstern-energie.de|4.5}}   {{AffLink|Polarstern|polarstern.electricity}}: min. term: 1 month<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-22|url=https://www.polarstern-energie.de/oekostrom/|quote=Welche Konditionen bietet Polarstern? / Bei uns gibt es keine Mindestvertragslaufzeit – du kannst deinen Vertrag immer mit zwei Wochen Frist zum Monatsende kündigen.}}</ref>
* {{Trustpilot|vattenfall.de|4.5}}   {{AffLink|Vattenfall|vattenfall.electricity}}: minimum term: 12 months
* {{Trustpilot|eprimo.de|3}}   {{AffLink|eprimo|eprimo.electricity}}: min. term: 12 months<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-07-01|url=https://www.eprimo.de/oekostrom/strom-kuendigen|quote=Kündigungsfristen bei eprimo}}</ref>
* {{Trustpilot|lekker.de|3}}   {{AffLink|lekker|lekker.electricity}}
* {{Trustpilot|q-cells.de|2}}   {{AffLink|Qcells|q-cells.electricity}}
* {{Trustpilot|lew.de|1.5}}   {{AffLink|LEW|lew.electricity}}: min. term: 12 months<ref>{{Cite|date=2022-06-22|url=https://www.lew.de/fuer-zuhause/strom/lew-strom-basis-online-natur|quote=Mindestvertragslaufzeit: 12 Monate}}</ref>

=== Compare German Electricity Providers ===

Instead of comparing offers yourself, you can use a comparison service. Enter your postal code & estimated consumption, and get a list of offers.

* {{Trustpilot|www.check24.de|5}} {{AffLink|Check24|check24-electricity-comparison}} (How to use it: [https://www.check24.de/strom-gas/ratgeber/how-to-switch-energy-supplier-in-germany/ Guide in English])
* {{Trustpilot|www.verivox.de|4.5}} {{Link|Verivox|verivox-electricity-comparison}}

== See also ==
* [https://prepareforgermany.com/en/housing/switch-electricity-gas Switching electricity and gas in Germany] by ''PrepareforGermany''
* [https://goodlifegermany.com/en/how-to-germany/for-your-home/best-electricity-providers-germany-2021/ Review of green electricity companies] by ''goodlifegermany.com''
* [https://www.ostrom.de/post/how-you-will-benefit-from-germanys-strompreisbremse-energy-price-brake How You Will Benefit from Germany’s Strompreisbremse (Energy Price Brake)] by ''ostrom.de''

{{Notes}}

[[Category:Housing]]

Germany/Mobile

2026-03-03T12:37:06Z

Shuai: New source added

{{DISPLAYTITLE:Mobile Telephony in Germany}}
Questions & answers about mobile phone providers for homes, links & guides to comparisons.
{{FAQ|
{{FAQ/Item|q= Can I use my SIM card from another country in Germany? |a=

Yes, if your provider allows roaming (which it does very likely). You might need to enable it, especially data roaming.

In Germany, the following standards are in operation:

* 2G (EDGE)
* 3G (UMTS)
* 4G (LTE)
* and partially starting with 5G

See a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_mobile_network_operators_of_Europe#Germany more technical list at Wikipedia].

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= How much does it cost to use my foreign SIM card Germany? |a=

==== SIM card from another EU country ====

If your foreign SIM card is from another EU country, then the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Union_roaming_regulations EU roaming regulations] apply. Basically:

* You pay the same rates as if you were in the home country of your SIM card.
* However, after 4 months being abroad your home SIM card provider has the right the cancel the contract, as they can assume that you now live in Germany.

==== SIM Card from a Non-EU country ====

It totally depends on the rates of your SIM card provider.

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= When Do I need a German SIM card? |a=

* When you want to be reachable by a German (mobile) number.
* When you want a flat rate for calls to German (mobile) numbers, and your current provider does not offer it.
* When you do not habe EU roaming, or when it stopped working.

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= Do I need a verification? |a=

By law, your name and address needs to be verified with

* a legal document (passport or national ID), and
* a German street address (you don't need an ''Anmeldung'' (to be registered) there but it should exist.

You can read [https://prepaid-data-sim-card.fandom.com/wiki/Germany#Activation_and_registration here] more about the details.

}}
}}

== SIM Card offers ==
=== Selected ===

Here are selected offers suitable for expats.

* [https://berlincheap.com/mobile-prepaid/ Vodafone CallYa]: Prepaid SIM (no minimum term) with unlimited calls & SMS to Germany, 200 min/SMS to EU countries and 100 min/SMS to Turkey, roaming within EU:
** €9.99 / month with 6 GB data
** €14.99 / month with 10 GB data
* {{Link|Sipgate prepaid|sipgate.prepaid}}: Prepaid eSIM (no minimum term) with bookable packages:
** unlimited calls/SMS to all EU countries: €19.95
** mobile and free landline number in Germany
** roaming with EU

=== Comparisons ===

Below are 3 sub-pages, each one with a customizable calculator: Select your preferred network operator and for example also the data volume you need per month and get a regularly updated list of results.

<div class="ul-list-style-none">
* [[/Prepaid|List of German prepaid SIM cards]]
* [[/Data|List of German SIM cards with Data plans]]
* [[/Free|List of free German SIM cards]]
</div>

== See also ==

* [https://prepareforgermany.com/en/phone-internet/sim-card/plan Mobile plan in Germany: How to optimize your plan after getting started] at ''PrepareforGermany''
* [https://prepaid-data-sim-card.fandom.com/wiki/Germany Long and detailed guide for Germany] at ''Prepaid Data SIM Card Wiki''

Germany/Banking

2026-03-03T12:29:37Z

Shuai: New source added

{{Head
|Banking in Germany
|Free, English, no Anmeldung
|When living or doing business in Germany, a '''German Bank Account''' can be useful for receiving salary, paying rent & other spending. Find here an bank for your purpose.
}}

<div class="ul-list-style-none">
* [[/Current|Current Bank Accounts]] (''Girokonto''): accounts for individuals
** <htmltag tagname="a" href="/Germany/Banking/Current#monthly-fees=no">Free banks (no monthly fees)</htmltag>
** <htmltag tagname="a" href="/Germany/Banking/Current#languages=en">Banks with English support</htmltag>
** <htmltag tagname="a" href="/Germany/Banking/Current#cash-withdrawals=free-own">Banks with free cash withdrawals</htmltag>
** <htmltag tagname="a" href="/Germany/Banking/Current#no-registered-address=1">Banks with no registered address (''Anmeldung'') required</htmltag>
* [[/Business|Business Bank Accounts]]
* [[/Students|Bank Accounts for Students]]
** [[/Blocked|Blocked Accounts]] (''Sperrkonto'') for study or jobseeker visa application
* [[/Savings|Savings Accounts]]
* [[/Brokers|Brokers]]
* [[/Credit_cards|Credit Cards]]
</div>

{{FAQ|
{{FAQ/Item|q= Do I need a German or a Euro bank account? |a=

To pay rent and most bills or receive salary, you usually need an account that can '''send''' and '''receive [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Single_Euro_Payments_Area SEPA transfers]''' in '''EUR'''.

So your bank account does not need to be from Germany. It must only be able to send and receive SEPA transfers in EUR. Many accounts from other [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Economic_Area EU and EEA countries] can do that.

However, some companies and authorities have '''problems using non-German account number''' ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Bank_Account_Number IBAN]). This is illegal but it may happen. Then, a <htmltag tagname="a" href="/Germany/Banking/Current#iban=de">German account number</htmltag> is more convenient.

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= What do I need to open a German bank account? |a=

This varies from bank to bank. However, these things are common:

* You always need prove your identity, e.g. with a passport or national ID card.
* You often need give an address, so that the bank can send you a credit or debit card.
* Sometimes, you need to show your registration (''Anmeldung'')
* Some banks want to see your income and credit history. (E.g. {{AffLink|DKB|dkb}} is known to be picky.)

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= Which type of bank account can I use as a freelancer? |a=
To receive income from freelancing or your business, you usually need a [[/Business|business bank]]. Banks listed here are for individuals who want to receive their salary from being an employee, their scholarship or similar.

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= Do I get interest on my money? |a=
On giro accounts in Germany, you usually do not get interests paid out. For such offers, check the [[/Savings|List of German Savings Accounts]].

}}{{FAQ/Item|q= Which bank is the best for me? |a=

A bank that

* speaks <htmltag tagname="a" href="/Germany/Banking/Current#languages=en">your language</htmltag>. There many offers with support in English or even more languages.
* has <htmltag tagname="a" href="/Germany/Banking/Current#cash-withdrawals=free-own">free cash withdrawals</htmltag>. While nearly all supermarkets already allow card payments, you will still need to use cash at smaller shops, cafés, restaurants or food trucks.
* has <htmltag tagname="a" href="/Germany/Banking/Current#monthly-fees=no">no monthly fees</htmltag>. There are so many banks even without fees, so you don't need to pick one that costs money.
* lets you sign up with our documents. If you <htmltag tagname="a" href="/Germany/Banking/Current#no-registered-address=1">do not have an registered address (''Anmeldung'')</htmltag> yet, this can be difficult.

}}
}}
== See also ==
[https://prepareforgermany.com/en/finances Money and Bank Account – your financial foundation for getting started in Germany] by ''PrepareforGermany.com''

{{Notes}}

[[Category:Banking]]

Germany/Insurance/Health

2026-03-03T12:06:13Z

Shuai: New source added

{{DISPLAYTITLE:Health Insurance in Germany}}
The German health care system is divided into 2 branches

* public healthcare
* private healthcare

Your first decision is to pick one of them.

== How to find the right German health insurance for me? ==

In many cases, you don't have a choice: For instance when you are employed and make less than around 60,750 € EUR per year (gross), you must pick the public system.

Here's a list of "simple" cases. If your case if more complicated, read a guide listed below.

== Simple cases ==

=== Employed in a regular job ===

If you are

* part- or full-time employed
* earn less than 60,750 € gross per year

you must take the [[#Public|public option]].

=== Student under 30 ===

If you are a student at an

* Universität (university) or
* Fachhochschule (University of Applied Sciences)

then the [[#Public|public option]] is almost always the cheapest choice (~100€/month).

=== Student who needs a visa ===

In this case, you probably also need a Blocked Account (''Sperrkonto''). There are interesting combined offers of both a Blocked Account and Health insurance, check a here a [https://berlincheap.com/blocked-account/ comparison of health insurance packages].

=== (Young) freelancer from outside EU & EEA ===

If you are:

* young (under 30)
* freelancer / self-employed
* from outside EU & EEA (European Economic Area)
* plan to stay only a few years in Germany

then likely the [[#Private|private option]] is cheaper.

=== Freelance artists and publicists ===

You might qualify for the Künstlersozialkasse. They pay half of your health insurance and public pension insurance. It costs nothing, so it's really worth it. It just takes a lot of paperwork.

* [https://allaboutberlin.com/guides/ksk-kuenstlersozialkasse How to join the Künstlersozialkasse]

== Setup an insurance option ==

=== General ===
* {{AffLink|Feather|feather-health}} is a Berlin-based, fully English-speaking option. They can advise you both about public and private health insurance and will find the best matching option for you. '''A consultation is free.'''

=== Public ===

There are several public health insurance options. They do not differ so much in their price/rates because they are regulated by law: You always pay around 16% of your income.

So you rather want to choose them by the features they offer. For expats, options with an English speaking service are a big bonus – so with English information.

Besides, there is also a very helpful and '''free signup service''' from {{AffLink|Feather|feather-health}}: Instead of filling out a German form at the health insurance, you can simply reach out to Feather's signup services, get '''free advice''' and counselling in English and fill out an '''English form'''.

* [https://www.tk.de/en TK (formerly: Techniker)] – {{AffLink|English signup service|signup.tk}}
* [https://en.zuwanderer.aok.de/home/ AOK] – {{AffLink|English signup service|signup.aok}}
* [https://www.dak.de/dak/english-2082268.html DAK] – {{AffLink|English signup service|signup.dak}}
* [https://www.barmer.de/en Barmer] – {{AffLink|English signup service|signup.barmer}}
* [https://allaboutberlin.com/calculators/health-insurance Health insurance calculator] that shows what you can have, and how much you must pay.

=== Private ===

Private options vary a lot by their coverage and their rates – often very much depending on your age and health status.

* {{AffLink|Feather|feather-health}} offers a private insurance with English support. Consultation is free.
* {{AffLink|Foyer Global Health|foyer-global-health}} speaks English, too, and can give you '''instantly a quote on their website''', so you know immediately what rates to expect.
* {{AffLink|Ottonova|ottonova}} is a new, fully English-speaking option. You can get '''free consultation''', without any signing up.
* [https://berlincheap.com/private-healthcare/ English translated calculator] by ''BerlinCheap.com'': Enter your details + contact and get a quote from various insurance options.
* [https://thegermanyeye.com/germany_health_insurance_comparison Private health insurance comparison tool] allows you to compare what other expatriates are paying for their coverage.

== More guides ==
* [https://berlincheap.com/healthcare/ Comparison of German Health Insurance Options] by ''BerlinCheap.com''
* [https://allaboutberlin.com/guides/german-health-insurance How to choose German health insurance] by ''allaboutberlin.com''
* [https://www.settle-in-berlin.com/health-insurance-germany/ Health insurance in Germany] by ''settle-in-berlin.com''
* [https://www.howtogermany.com/pages/healthinsurance.html Health Insurance Options in Germany - 2020] by ''howtogermany.com''
* [https://thegermanyeye.com/private-health-insurance-in-germany---pros-and-cons-3626 Pros and Cons of Private vs Public German Health Insurance] by ''thegermanyeye.com''
* [https://germanyso.com/en/how-to-germany/healthcare/what-to-expect-from-health-care/ What to expect from German healthcare] by ''Germanyso''
* [https://prepareforgermany.com/en/health-insurance Health insurance – stay covered when starting out in Germany] by ''PrepareforGermany''

{{Notes}}