Germany
Berlin
Visa complexity: Medium Work visa ≈ 90–120 daysCost +9% vs EU
Cost of living
Living costs in Berlin
Indicative monthly costs (approx., EUR) — rent is a 1-bed city-centre flat. For guidance only.
€1,100
Rent · 1-bed, city centre
€12
Meal · inexpensive restaurant
€49
Transport · monthly pass
€260
Utilities · monthly
Eurostat price level index 2024: 109 (EU average = 100) — +9% vs EU. € figures reviewed 2026-06.
Healthcare
Health system & insurance
Public (statutory GKV) + private (PKV)Insurance required
Health insurance is mandatory; most residents use statutory GKV, higher earners may opt for private PKV.
Visa options
Routes into Germany
Pick a route to see its processing time, fee and document checklist. Timings are indicative consular estimates.
🇩🇪 Skilled Worker Visa (§18a / §18b AufenthG)
Document checklist
- Passport (valid 12+ months)
- Signed German employment contract (gross salary ≥ €43,759.80 or shortage role)
- ZAB qualification recognition statement (Anerkennung)
- B1 German language certificate (Goethe / telc / ÖSD)
- Apostilled academic + professional certificates with sworn translation
- Proof of health insurance from arrival
- CV in Europass format
Ready to move to Germany?
Map your exact pathway in the visa wizard, or book a free consultation — a coordinator replies within 24 hours.