Work & Taxes: how it works in Germany — first-hand
Real experience of people from chats on «Work & Taxes» in Germany — as it is, no fluff. For your case — ask Luky.
From real experience
To sell property in Russia remotely, a power of attorney (доверенность) is required. This document can typically be issued by a Russian notary or at a Russian consulate abroad. The principal (seller) needs to grant explicit authority to the attorney-in-fact (e.g., a brother) to handle the sale and property transfer. The seller may also need to de-register from the property. It's advisable to consult with a Russian notary or legal expert for the exact requirements and procedures.
Beware of employment scams targeting people seeking jobs in Germany. Common signs include: remote 'recruiters' offering to pay for the visa, asking for passport data/answering surveys, claiming to handle visa processing without the applicant's presence at an embassy, or requesting payments via crypto/third-party platforms (like Bybit). Official German visas always require a personal visit to a consulate for biometric data collection.
For issues related to tax declarations, especially concerning undeclared income from abroad, consult a licensed tax advisor (Steuerberater) or a tax lawyer (Rechtsanwalt). Self-filing may not be advisable for significant amounts. Seeking professional help is crucial to avoid legal complications.
Salary expectations for engineers and skilled workers in Germany vary significantly. Gross salaries of €3000-€3500 for experienced engineers might be considered moderate, with net income (after taxes and contributions) being considerably lower. Entry-level positions after Ausbildung often start with net salaries around €2000-€2500. Salaries tend to be higher in major cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg, but so is the cost of living. Factors influencing salary include industry, company size, region, and individual qualifications, with language proficiency playing a notable role.
For programs like FSJ (Voluntary Social Year), FÖJ (Voluntary Ecological Year), and BFD (Federal Volunteer Service) in Germany, a basic German language level of A1 is often sufficient. Many participating organizations offer integrated German language courses to help participants improve their skills. In some cases, organizations may cover the costs of these courses, enabling individuals who start with A1 to effectively participate and improve their language proficiency during the program.
If your German residence permit and passport are expiring soon, and obtaining a new passport appointment is difficult, consider applying for a Fiktionsbescheinigung (provisional document) from the relevant authority (Ausländerbehörde). This document can temporarily extend your legal stay and allow you to continue working. It is also advisable to apply for a second passport abroad if possible, as it is a common practice ('must-have') for individuals residing overseas.
If your residence permit (VWP) and passport expire simultaneously in September, and you have an appointment at the Bürgerbüro on July 14th but no available appointments for a new passport, inform the Ausländerbehörde (ABS) in advance. They might issue a Fiktionsbescheinigung (provisional document) to allow continued legal stay and employment while awaiting the new passport. Expedited processing or applying for a second passport abroad might be options.
Recipients of social welfare, pension top-ups, or survivor benefits in Germany must declare all foreign income, including Russian pensions. German social authorities regularly audit recipients and demand official statements from the Russian Pension Fund. Concealing foreign pension income will lead to retroactive recalculations, demands to repay overpaid social assistance, potential fines, and legal prosecution.
For qualified employment in Germany, an apostille on university diplomas is generally not required if the institution is recognized in the Anabin database. A certified (sworn) translation of the diploma into German, combined with the official Anabin documentation, is typically sufficient for most employers and visa authorities.
Finding an Ausbildung (vocational training) in Germany is challenging, even for those with a B2 German language level or native speakers. Pursuing a degree through a German state university is considered a more reliable immigration path, though it requires significant time and financial investment. The viability of volunteering as a pathway to German immigration is unconfirmed.
Relocating to Berlin without German language skills presents significant challenges, especially for non-highly educated individuals. Even for entry-level positions like delivery drivers or warehouse workers, a basic level of German (A1) is often required. Employers may be hesitant to hire individuals without a residence permit ('Aufenthaltstitel'), even if they enter on a tourist visa under § 41 AufenthV with the intention of applying for residency locally. The process of obtaining an appointment ('Termin') at the LEA Berlin and receiving a 'Fiktionsbescheinigung' (temporary permit allowing work) can be lengthy and is not always immediate.
For a German skilled worker visa (e.g., §18b AufenthG), the job does not need to perfectly match the university diploma's exact field, but it should be a qualified position commensurate with the academic level. Key factors are finding an employer and the job being considered in-demand enough to justify bringing a specialist from abroad. An economics bachelor's degree (H-status on Anabin) could qualify for roles like logistics specialist, coordinator, or project manager. However, a high level of German language proficiency is often crucial for such positions. For manual 'worker' professions (e.g., plumber), obtaining a visa with a university degree is challenging; it requires approval from the Agentur für Arbeit, and practical experience is usually mandatory. The focus should be on finding skilled employment in related management fields.
When communicating with landlords in Germany regarding apartment handovers or security deposit (Kaution) returns, messaging apps are not legally binding. Official notices must be sent via registered physical mail (Einschreiben) to serve as legal proof. If the landlord unjustifiably delays returning the deposit, tenants can initiate an online summary court procedure for debt collection (Mahnverfahren/Mahnbescheid), which is highly effective and usually forces a prompt return of funds.
German language proficiency is a mandatory requirement for work visas in Germany. A minimum of B1 is generally needed, with B2 often required for roles in healthcare (Pflege). Employers assess language skills during interviews, so practical fluency is crucial beyond just holding a certificate. Some positions, particularly for care assistants, might accept B1, but skilled nursing roles demand B2. Be prepared for increased language requirements due to the influx of individuals with formal training but limited practical skills.
German authorities (social services) require proof of income, including pensions from abroad. Renouncing a pension to qualify for social benefits or to simplify paperwork is a known strategy, but it carries risks. German authorities only recognize pension status changes for specific visa categories (e.g., Paragraph 4). Risks include retroactive adjustment if the Russian pension is reinstated later.
Maintaining German residency (Anmeldung, work permit, insurance) while physically residing in Russia can be problematic. From the German perspective, if the 'center of vital interests' remains in Germany, issues might be avoided. However, this arrangement can lead to significant tax residency complications in Russia, potentially resulting in loss of Russian tax residency benefits. Transferring salary from a German bank account to Russia can also be challenging. This setup is particularly complex for Russian citizens and may lead to legal and financial repercussions in both countries, especially concerning taxation and social security contributions.
To find work or an Ausbildung in Germany from abroad, prioritize language proficiency and educational recognition. Aim for at least a B1/B2 level in German, as A2 is insufficient for most positions. Utilize resources like Anabin to check educational equivalency. Search on platforms such as Ausbildung.de, Stepstone, Make it in Germany, and company career pages. Be aware that competition is high, especially for those without recognized qualifications. Focus on improving language skills daily and learning profession-specific vocabulary.
Finding employment in Germany as a Russian citizen can be significantly easier when physically present in the country. Remote job applications, particularly for 'Blue Card' positions, may yield limited success. Upon arrival on a tourist visa, the chances of securing a job offer increase substantially, as demonstrated by personal experiences where initial on-site interviews led to contracts. This strategy allows for direct interaction with potential employers and a better assessment of opportunities.
Job hunting in Germany for non-native speakers: 1. Use platforms like Stepstone and 'Make it in Germany'. 2. Language proficiency (B2+ usually required) is critical for most roles unless the candidate has niche technical expertise. 3. Verification of foreign degrees via the 'Anabin' database is mandatory for employer recognition.
Doctors seeking information on diploma recognition and employment in Germany often look for specialized forums or chat groups for peer advice and discussion of specific nuances of the German healthcare system and bureaucracy.
If you lose your job in Germany on a work visa and wish to switch to an 'Ausbildung' (vocational training) status, follow these steps: 1. Submit an online inquiry to the Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde - ABH). 2. Secure a training placement and understand the specific requirements from the ABH relevant to your residence address. 3. Ensure you have valid health insurance. 4. Notify the ABH promptly about your job termination. 5. Be aware that German language proficiency (at least A1 level) may be required for the 'Ausbildung' visa, though exceptions exist. Applying for an emergency appointment ('Notfalltermin') might be beneficial if your current visa is expiring soon.
Having a self-employment status in Russia while working under an employment contract in Germany generally does not pose issues for German authorities, especially if there's no active income from Russian self-employment post-relocation. Any income generated from Russian self-employment (e.g., rental income managed via self-employment status) must be declared in the German tax declaration. Based on user experience, this typically does not lead to complications or further inquiries from German tax authorities.
Common job scams in Germany often involve offers for low-skilled work (e.g., solar panel installation) with attractive salaries (€2900/month) and promises to cover visa/relocation costs. The scam typically progresses by requesting a bank statement, often from cryptocurrency platforms like Bybit, showing a balance of around €3150. Key red flags include: 1. Promises of visa processing without personal biometric submission. 2. Requests for financial proof from non-traditional banks or crypto exchanges for visa applications (German visa applications usually require blocked accounts or traditional bank statements). 3. Unrealistic high salaries for low-skilled positions. 4. Reputable German employers for low-skilled roles usually do not sponsor visas for foreign workers when local labor is available.
Free legal and social consultations in Russian are available in Germany through specialized organizations with representatives in each federal state. If a local representative is unavailable, contact consultants in other states. For instance, Marina Shubina in Hesse (maryna.shubina.org) offers assistance, particularly for Ukrainian citizens, covering legal, social, and employment-related matters. These services can provide crucial guidance in difficult situations.
When changing employers in Germany with a work visa (Visa D), obtaining a new work permit can involve significant waiting times. The process includes submitting an application to the local immigration authority (Ausländerbehörde), often after securing a new job offer. Waiting periods can extend for months, especially in cities like Munich. Communication with the authorities, including follow-up emails and letters, is standard, but can be slow. In urgent cases or for complex situations, seeking legal advice from an immigration lawyer is an option, though it can be costly (e.g., 1200 EUR) and does not guarantee faster processing. Some resources, like Welcome Centers, may offer free immigration counseling.
German citizens, especially late repatriates or digital nomads, must be aware of health insurance and tax residency rules. Compulsory health insurance is mandatory for residents. Private health insurance costs range from €350-€800/month for a 40-year-old and requires an annual gross income of approximately €74,000 to qualify. Switching from private to public insurance is difficult after age 50-57. ADAC offers medical insurance.
Residency is typically established by spending over 180 days per year in Germany, which mandates registration (Anmeldung), GEZ payments (broadcasting fee), and tax obligations. Failure to comply can lead to significant penalties from the Finanzamt. Registration is also required for purchasing and registering a car in Germany to obtain German license plates. Cash payments for cars from dealerships are usually limited to €10,000; private sales might be more flexible but pose risks. 'Incoming-Versicherung' (temporary insurance) for €80-€100/month is an option for temporary stays (up to 5 years) but not for German citizens or for extending residence permits.
Finding official employment in Germany as a barber from Russia is challenging without EU citizenship due to visa complexities. Employers are often reluctant to sponsor work visas. Requirements typically include German language proficiency (B1 level), recognized education, and potentially a self-employment visa. A common suggestion is to enter Germany on a tourist visa and search for employment locally. Having EU citizenship significantly simplifies the job search process.
Late resettlers (§7/§8) in Germany experiencing a refusal of JobCenter benefits or housing costs for their children due to delays in obtaining residence permits from the Ausländerbehörde should seek support and advice within specialized online communities or legal aid services focused on late resettlers. This indicates a known systemic challenge rather than an isolated incident.
A German skilled worker visa (e.g., under §18b AufenthG) is typically tied to a specific employment contract and employer. Changing jobs requires explicit permission from the Ausländerbehörde (ABH), and the new job must also meet the visa's criteria (e.g., qualified employment). Working in an unauthorized position (e.g., as a courier or plumber with an economics degree visa) is illegal. Non-compliance can lead to severe consequences, including fines, confiscation of illegally earned income, deportation, and a re-entry ban to the EU. The employer is also liable for failing to report changes. If the initial employment contract ends, the visa's validity is also affected. For more flexibility, options like the Chancenkarte might allow part-time work in non-academic fields while searching for qualified employment.
To confirm IT work experience in Russia for a German Blue Card (changing from paragraph 18b to Blue Card), you may need to submit documents such as a Unified State Register of Legal Entities (EGRUL) extract for your sole proprietorship (IP) and tax declarations to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) or relevant authorities.
Confirming German language proficiency for visas and employment in Germany involves both formal and practical assessments. While a language certificate is often required for visa applications, employers may assess your skills directly during interviews. The Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde) might also gauge your language level without a formal certificate. If you're relying on improving your language skills after arrival (e.g., starting from A2), it can be challenging to understand job requirements, pass interviews, and obtain necessary permits. Therefore, possessing a B1/B2 level or a certificate is highly recommended, as it's often a prerequisite for visa approval, even if not always demanded by employers.
Russian tax residents must report foreign bank account activity. Non-residents (those spending >183 days outside Russia in a calendar year) are exempt. However, the Federal Tax Service (FNS) may still request proof of non-residency status. Always keep proof of stay abroad (passport stamps, residence permits) ready to avoid administrative penalties.
For employees in Germany (especially those in tax class 1) with no additional income sources or complex deductions, self-filing a tax declaration is often feasible. Tools like WISO Steuer can be used for this. However, for self-employed individuals, those with multiple income streams, significant deductions, or family-related tax complexities, consulting a tax advisor (Steuerberater) is recommended. The ease of self-filing largely depends on the simplicity of one's financial situation.
Non-EU citizens (e.g., Israeli) can claim Tax Free on purchases from stores like MediaMarkt in Germany.
1. Request a Tax Free form at the point of purchase.
2. At the airport, present the filled form to customs for a stamp.
3. Proceed to the designated refund company's (e.g., Global Blue) counter for the refund.
4. Opt for a refund to a credit card rather than cash to minimize commission fees.
5. Exercise caution if traveling to Russia with a single booking, as this might involve additional considerations for Tax Free.
Individuals residing in Germany with Russian bank deposits generating annual income (e.g., 1 million rubles) may be required to declare this income in Germany. Failure to do so can result in penalties, interest, or legal action for tax evasion. Seeking advice from a tax advisor is recommended.
For individuals with non-EU citizenship but eligible for priority work visa status in Germany (similar to US, Australian, Japanese citizens), finding an employer willing to sponsor the visa process is key. Success often depends on the demand for your specific profession within Germany. High-demand sectors or skilled trades may increase the likelihood of securing such employment.
Tax residency is generally determined by physical presence (the 183-day rule). An individual becomes a tax resident of Germany upon employment and tax ID registration. If an individual spends less than 183 days in Russia within a calendar year, they lose their tax residency status in Russia. These statuses are not simultaneous for the entire year but are calculated based on the duration of stay in each jurisdiction.
Choosing between a fiancé(e) visa and a tourist visa for Germany involves different strategies. The fiancé(e) visa requires proof of a strong romantic relationship and leads to marriage in Germany, which is a complex bureaucratic process. A 90-day tourist visa allows for exploration, interviews for 'Ausbildung' or jobs, and a chance to assess the situation. Honesty with the embassy is crucial; misrepresenting the relationship can lead to complications. Financial guarantees (VE) from German partners are necessary for many visa types. Consider alternative locations like Georgia for marriage, followed by family reunification, as a potentially simpler process than formalizing marriage in Germany.
Visa-free stays (e.g., 90 days for Georgian citizens) in Germany do not grant the right to work. Offers to pay a fee (e.g., 150 EUR) for 'registration' to enable immediate work upon arrival are scams. Engaging in unauthorized work can lead to the confiscation of earnings, significant fines, and a ban from entering Germany/Schengen Area.
If a user changes their name/surname before applying for a German visa or program (like FSJ), they do not need to reissue old academic certificates or diplomas. They must obtain an official name change certificate, get it apostilled in the issuing country, and have it translated by a sworn translator (vereidigter Übersetzer) in Germany to present alongside their old documents.
Drone operation in Germany requires registration with the LBA (Luftfahrt-Bundesamt), a remote pilot certificate, and third-party liability insurance. Use apps like 'map2fly' to identify no-fly zones (airports, military, nature reserves). Drones must be marked with the pilot's e-ID.
Key German job search portals include Stepstone.de, Indeed.de, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Make it in Germany. Additionally, many large companies maintain dedicated 'career' or 'vacancies' sections on their own websites. For vocational training (Ausbildung), specialized platforms like Ausbildung.de are recommended.
For job searching in Germany, recommend platforms such as Stepstone and LinkedIn. These are widely used for various industries and positions.
In Germany, registering two residences (Hauptwohnsitz and Nebenwohnsitz) can trigger tax scrutiny. Some municipalities (like Chemnitz mentioned here) levy a secondary residence tax (Zweitwohnsitzsteuer). If a person claims their main residence is in one city but their work is in another, authorities might investigate to ensure the declared 'center of vital interests' (Mittelpunkt der Lebensinteressen) is accurate to prevent tax evasion.
To attend entrance exams for a Studienkolleg in Germany and plan to stay for studies, apply for a National Visa D for applicants (D-Visum für Studienbewerber). This visa allows the applicant to remain in Germany after exams and apply for a residence permit on site. Required documents typically include an invitation to the exam and proof of financial means (blocked account for 9 months, e.g., €11,208 for 2024/2025). For minors, a notarized parental consent for long-term stay and a guardian in Germany may be required. Check the official embassy website for the most up-to-date and complete list of documents.
A common scam targeting expats involves fake job offers that require a 'visa deposit' or 'account opening fee' via crypto platforms like Bybit (e.g., 3000-3300 EUR). Legitimate employers in Germany do not demand advance payments for visa processing. Always cross-check job offers through official consular websites and avoid private, unverified 'lawyers' or recruiters asking for wire transfers.