Germany has a strong economy, low unemployment rate, and high standard of living, making it an attractive destination for workers from across Europe. Citizens of European Union (EU) countries have the right to work in Germany without needing a work permit, but there are still rules and regulations that must be followed. In this article, we will explore the key facts you need to know about working in Germany as an EU citizen.
Working in Germany as an EU citizen: regulations and requirements
Firstly, European citizens do not need a visa to work in Germany, but they do need to register with the authorities within three months of arrival. This is done by obtaining an Anmeldebestätigung (registration certificate) from the local registration office (Bürgeramt).
You will need to provide:
- proof of identity (such as a passport)
- proof of residence (such as a rental contract)
- proof of employment (such as a job offer letter or work contract).
Once you are registered, you will need to obtain a tax ID number (Steueridentifikationsnummer) from the local tax office (Finanzamt). This number identifies you for tax purposes, and you must have it for any employment or business activities in Germany. You will also need to register for social security (Sozialversicherung), which includes health insurance, unemployment insurance, and pension insurance.
It is important to note that Germany has a minimum wage (Mindestlohn) of €12 per hour as of 2022. This minimum wage applies to all workers, including those from other EU countries. It may be higher in some industries or regions, so it is important to check the specific rules for your job. Additionally, German law requires a maximum of 48 working hours per week, with at least 11 hours of rest per day.
If you are not an EU citizen, we have an article on our blog exploring how things work for non-EU citizens. You can check it out, by clicking here.
Regulated professions
If you plan to be working in Germany as a EU citzen in a regulated profession (such as medicine, law, or engineering), you may need to have your qualifications recognized by the German authorities. Obtain an Anmeldebestätigung (registration certificate) from the local registration office (Bürgeramt) to accomplish this. The process can take several months, so it is important to start early.
Work culture
Germans place a high value on punctuality, efficiency, and professionalism. People take meetings and appointments seriously, and it is important to arrive on time. Germans also value direct communication and clear expectations. If you have any questions or concerns, it is best to address them directly with your employer or colleagues.
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