Moving from the US to Germany

Thinking About Moving to Germany?

Start here with our complete guide to relocating as an American wanting to live in Germany.

Expert-led advice for Americans making the move including tax, visas, finances, and more.

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Don't leave anything to chance

Moving to Germany requires proper planning

Moving from the US to Germany has been a common path to Europe followed by many Americans, especially in the past few years.

However, the move can be fraught with risks if not carefully planned, especially with language barriers and a different cultural approach to life.

family at airport 800
152,500

Around 152,500 Americans are living in Germany as expats as of 2024 making it a key destination for American expatriates

170,000

Just under 170,000 people became German citizens in 2023 while 49% of Americans living abroad are considering renouncing their American citizenship.

44%

The average American expat stays abroad for over a decade, with 44% intending to stay indefinitely

2,000

It is estimated that around 2,000 Americans applied for German citizenship in 2023, an 8-fold increase since 2003

*https://www.welt.de/vermischtes/article253842704/20-Jahres-Tief-Immer-weniger-Deutsche-wandern-in-die-USA-aus.html

 

 

Plan your move

Important challenges for Americans to overcome when moving to Germany

Moving internationally isn’t just a logistical task, it’s a financial, legal and emotional shift. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to overlook critical steps that could lead to visa delays, tax penalties, costly banking mistakes, or homesickness that catches you off guard.

Our free resources will create clarity, reduce stress, and help you move with confidence on your own terms.

Moving to Germany Checklist
Regional distinctions

Germany is a large and diverse country, both geographically and culturally, offering a wide range of living experiences depending on the region. Understanding these regional differences is essential when choosing where to settle in Germany.
Cost of living

Germany is generally more affordable than major US cities, particularly when it comes to healthcare, rent and public transport. Utilities, groceries, and dining out are typically cheaper however, income tax rates can be higher, and many everyday costs vary significantly.
Healthcare

Healthcare in Germany is publicly regulated and based on a universal system that ensures access for all residents, including expats. Private insurance is available but regulated and typically used by higher earners or self-employed individuals leading to better access to care at a lower cost than in the US.
Work/life balance

Germany has a cultural emphasis on separating work from personal time. The standard working week is around 40 hours with up to 30 days holiday per year. Germany offers Americans a welcome shift toward a more structured and protected personal life.
Tax complications

Germany has a progressive income tax system with relatively high rates compared to the US and most residents are subject to both federal income tax and social contributions.

 

Americans must also consider their ongoing U.S. tax obligations as the US taxes citizens on worldwide income, even when living abroad.
Wealth management

Many US-based investment firms are unable to service clients residing in the EU, limiting access to certain accounts or investment products.

 

And yet, even experienced investors must seek assistance when making investment decisions to avoid tax penalties and higher tax rates in both countries.
Essential reading to get your research underway

What you’ll discover inside our US to UK relocation section

We help Americans moving to the UK, whether relocating for work, lifestyle, or British people returning home after time abroad.

We understand that every move is different, so while we offer information, checklists and guides to relocating to the UK, we support this with events, webinars and introduction services.

Whatever your motivation for moving to the UK, we’re here to give you the confidence and make your relocation smoother and far less stressful.

German Visas


Understand the various visa routes for work, or family relocation to the Germany. Learn what documents and supporting evidence and you'll need for each option. Read about German Visas

Financial Planning in Germany


Know when to start speaking to an adviser, how to manage US investments from abroad, what to do with your 401(k) and learn about currency risk. Financial planning in Germany

German/US Tax Planning

 

Tax can be complex and stressful. Avoid double taxation, understand the US-Germany tax treaty, and get clear on FBAR, FATCA, and German residency rules.

 Understand your US/German tax obligations

Lifestyle, Property and Homesickness


Discover how Germany differs day to day, explore cost of living, property options, everyday spending and the things other people forget. Learn more about living in Germany
Timeline

Relocation timeline and when to speak to specialists

Moving abroad can feel a lot like preparing for a marathon. While most people will eventually reach the finish line, without training and expert support the risk of stress, mistakes and costly setbacks increases dramatically.

When relocating to Germany, the order of your decisions really matters. Visa applications can take months, tax obligations come with strict deadlines, property choices require research and preparation, and access to healthcare is linked to how and when you register. Skip a step or tackle things in the wrong order and you could face unnecessary delays, expense and stress.

That’s why we’ve created a relocation timeline specifically for Germany. It lays out the key milestones, from over 12 months before departure to your first weeks after arrival. Whether you’re moving for work, family life or retirement, it helps you plan ahead, make timely decisions and know when professional advice is essential.

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