Get insider tips and expert advice for living abroad

Living abroad isn’t always easy—especially in a historically homogenous country like Germany. But it can be hard to find some real talk amongst all the dreamy imagery. Introducing What It’s Like, a new content series. Diverse perspectives sharing candid conversations about what it’s like to be ________ in Germany. 

What it’s like to be Mexican in Germany

Meet Sandra, originally from California, USA 🇺🇸 and Guadalajara, Mexico 🇲🇽. Currently living in Munich.

Tell us a bit about you.

Full disclosure: I am a Mexican-American, born in California, and grew up in the city of Guadalajara from age 10 onward.

It’s important I address this because I entered Germany as a US Citizen, which comes with its own bureaucratic privileges.

It’s especially important to know this, as many Mexicans I’ve met, and who may read this will think “She’s not really Mexican”, and others will note my accent and think “But your English is so good.” I’ll talk about that later.

So why write Mexican? Simply because I identify as Mexican. And even more so since moving away.

Why Germany?

I first moved to Germany in 2017, to study advertising in Berlin. I did have the added motivation of my previous relationship, but I always wanted to live somewhere that had nothing to do with the US or Mexico. I had worked at ad agencies and brand studios before in Mexico, but felt there were more opportunities as a young creative and woman outside the country.

After graduating, I was able to apply for a Seeking Employment in Germany after Graduation residence permit, then landed a job in Munich. German bureaucracy? Oh yeah, been there, dreaded that. I was very close to being denied my permit due to insufficient funds in my bank account, it’s tough to show these things when you’re a student making do with less than 600€ a month.

I had quite a different experience in Munich’s foreigner office; here everyone seemed to be apologetic about slow internal processes. At least I was comforted by the fact that they knew.

Tell us about life in Germany.

If you’ve lived anywhere outside of Bavaria in Germany, most people would have told you “Bavaria is so traditional, conservative, boring, etc.” but I just think it’s something you have to try out. Especially, if time is running out and you betta werk :)

Of course, coming from Berlin, you pick up on the main differences, poor and sexy vs. posh and wealthy. And, I’m not just talking about economic wealth, people seem to take their leisure and time very seriously. I arrived in Munich shortly before the pandemic, so instead of exploring the beer gardens and jazzy nightlife, I discovered a new passion: hiking. My lifestyle went from weekend clubbing and too many interesting events to choose from, to weekend nature and really tuning in with wellbeing.

I’ve also discovered a huge Mexican community in the city and found that Munich has been voted most liveable by foreign residents.

What has been hard for you, living in Germany?

Remember I talked about “Your English is so good!” Well, I’ve had the experience that many Germans seem distraught or unable to make sense of people with dual nationalities, and when I do come to telling them about my Mexican roots, they* tend to make stereotypical remarks about my love for Tequila (I prefer Mezcal).

*Mostly Germans who have not lived or traveled abroad.

Germans really want you to speak German. And, I’ve experienced this on all parts of the spectrum. From randos on the U-Bahn saying “Wir Sind in Deutschland!” To kind friends and shopkeepers trying to help out with your basic German.

Here’s an obvious one: mostly cash payments and the EC card. I thought it didn’t bother me until I went to Sweden and Denmark.

And I get this one from many foreign friends: No good customer service.

What do you love about Germany—what makes you stay?

As much as I hate to say it: the rules. Somehow this bureaucracy and sense of policing each other, makes things work. And now, I see it as being mindful of others’ time, space, efforts.

Now in Munich, I very much enjoy the closeness to nature and the lightheartedness of locals.

What really excites me is meeting more foreigners like me, who seem to be enjoying their lives and finding safe spaces to rant about their struggles.

And of course, Bavarian public holidays: 13 per year – go JC!

How has it been, being so far away from home?

Food is hands down what I miss the most. It gets me so excited and happy that there are Mexicans creating more options like real taquerías in Berlin. But if I can find something, I learn to cook it. Shout out to Asian markets who have saved my spice life ❤️.

What's a piece of advice you'd give to other Mexicans thinking of moving here?

Hay una comunidad muy grande de latinos y Mexicanos listos para apoyarte, porque conocemos el camino. Crea tu red de apoyo y apoya a los demás. 😊

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Read more of the series here. 🌎 If you’d like to contribute your story and experiences in Germany, we’d love to feature you! Write to us at hello@getworldify.com.

Living abroad isn’t always easy—especially in a historically homogenous country like Germany. But it can be hard to find some real talk amongst all the dreamy imagery. Introducing What It’s Like, a new content series. Diverse perspectives sharing candid conversations about what it’s like to be ________ in Germany. 

What it’s like to be Hungarian in Germany

Meet Henrietta, originally from Budapest, Hungary. 🇭🇺 Currently living in Berlin.

Tell us a bit about you.

My name is Henrietta, I come from Budapest, Hungary. I'd been living in the capital for 25 years and have always been curious about living abroad—I always wanted to do an Erasmus semester. I made the decision in September 2019, but moved to Berlin in January 2020, as it took some time to prepare for the big step.

Although I studied law and worked for insurance companies for almost 2 years after graduation, I never saw myself in a traditional legal profession, as a lawyer or judge. So I was looking for a career at different multinational companies. However, I didn't feel I had found my path… I felt there was something else out there, something more exciting and adventurous.

Here in Germany, I wanted to look for something different to do.

Why Germany?

It was my boyfriend who brought me to Germany. We've been living in a long-distance relationship for half a year, almost. My legal background would have made it difficult for me to find a job in Berlin. Therefore, we decided that he would be the one to move back to Hungary.

At the time, I was in the middle of changing jobs when I realized, changing positions and workplaces isn’t going to solve my problem. I started at a new company, but I didn't feel I arrived at my place. As my partner was already living in Berlin, I thought: maybe this is going to be my chance. I had said no to an exchange semester in the US before—this time, I felt I couldn’t miss the opportunity to experience living abroad.

So, I packed my things and drove to Berlin by car from Budapest with my boyfriend. The bureaucracy part didn't get in my way as Hungary is also an EU member country, so I didn't have to do anything other than registering myself at the local registry office.

Tell us about life in Germany.

I always knew moving abroad wouldn’t be a completely smooth process—and on top of this, Corona hit the world. I gave time for myself to get to know the city better (even though I’d visited Berlin several times before) because I wanted to make myself feel at home. So I only started to look for a job last February. But it was too late, because of the total lockdown in March.

I can't say I experienced a culture shock or homesickness because the insecurity took over everything—I think that’d be true of everyone around me. Corona made it a hundred times more difficult to settle in, make friends, and find a job. I joined a 4-month intensive German course, which started in person and turned into an online course. But this helped me to make my first friendships, and of course, I started to meet my boyfriend's friends as well.

Despite the desperate times, I haven’t been isolated from human contact—I feel like I have a similar amount of German, Hungarian, and other foreign friends.

What has been hard for you, living in Germany?

Finding a job was a nightmare. I was desperately looking for—at the end—anything. I'm not someone who's comfortable sitting at home and waiting for a miracle to happen. I sent over 1000 applications and received almost the same amount of rejections.

As I didn't speak German, it made it even more difficult to succeed. Of course, not speaking the language can delay finding a job, but I believe that, as Berlin is quite an international hub, in normal times without a pandemic, you can find a job faster if you're a good English speaker. I didn't experience anything else that frustrated me culture-wise.

The other thing that is hard is finding an apartment. I had luck, I just moved in with my partner, but most of the people are looking for months.

What do you love about Germany—what makes you stay?

I love Berlin. This place welcomes everyone, and this is its most valuable characteristic. The atmosphere is unique, and there’s a place for every culture. That's why I love being here: you can try as many exciting, interesting, and sometimes odd things as you want—without being judged for it.

What I love best is to see people wearing what they feel the most comfortable in—that they are not afraid to express themselves. My weakness about Berlin is the amazing food scene that we have here. I consider myself a foodie and am always looking to discover new places. I even have 15 separate lists for cafés, restaurants, brunch places, and bars.

“I love Berlin. This place welcomes everyone, and this is its most valuable characteristic.”

I have to mention here how grateful I am for Germany’s inclusive approach and for supporting the people who are starting a new life here. The government has multiple programs to integrate the foreigners, by offering language courses, training, and other support. I also received an educational voucher which can be used at hundreds of schools within the country.

I couldn't start a career here as a lawyer, because most employers ask for being familiar with the German legal system. But I've been supported with this voucher and could participate in a 5-month intensive course to become a UX designer. That was the point when I finally felt that I found what I love to do. From then on, I was looking for a designer position.

After a long period of job-hunting, I started working as a UX designer in October 2021. I feel blessed, as I love my team, what I am doing. And lastly, but not least, I am super lucky with the route where I usually bike to the office and pass by the most famous Berlin sights.

How has it been, being so far away from home?

To be honest, I don't feel I'm super far from where I come from. Both (half of) Germany and Hungary have the same historical background, therefore we have a lot in common. There are even quite similar-looking buildings, and our cuisines don't really differ from each other that much. I don't really have this thought in my mind that I'm a Hungarian in Germany—rather, I consider myself as a European in Europe.

“As a Hungarian, I really miss my mother’s amazing homemade pickles.”

Of course, I miss my family, but it only takes 1.5 hours by plane to meet, which is a distance that you easily travel within the country by car as well. We are in daily contact, as the digital world makes it really easy to interact with people located hundreds of kilometers apart from each other. Though, the challenge at the moment is the pandemic, which keeps us from meeting regularly at the moment.

I will say, as a Hungarian, I really miss my mother's amazing homemade pickles.

What's a piece of advice you'd give to other Hungarians thinking of moving here?

You have to try it. Berlin is for everyone, you'll find your place for sure. One piece of advice that I can give is to start learning German from the moment you decide to come here if you don't speak the language already. You can manage your life in English, but after a while, you'll feel uncomfortable not understanding the people around you. And you also have to take bureaucracy into consideration, which is strictly in German.

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Read more of the series here. 🌎 If you’d like to contribute your story and experiences in Germany, we’d love to feature you! Write to us at hello@getworldify.com.

Living abroad isn’t always easy—especially in a historically homogenous country like Germany. But it can be hard to find some real talk amongst all the dreamy imagery. Introducing What It’s Like, a new content series. Diverse perspectives sharing candid conversations about what it’s like to be ________ in Germany. 

What it’s like to be Irish in Germany

Meet Jamie, originally from Dublin, Ireland. 🇮🇪 Currently living in Berlin.

Tell us a bit about you.

I come from Dublin, Ireland. I moved in the midst of the pandemic in August 2020 by myself. I was working a variety of random jobs, from bartender to electrician, to sausage salesman to musician.

Why Germany?

I first became interested in moving to Berlin because of the already vibrant music scene that it had. That was then compounded with the fact that the rents are much lower than Dublin. The German bureaucracy still loomed over me but because Ireland is still in the EU, I think I had it easier than most.

Tell us about life in Germany.

I struggled at the beginning, I haven’t suffered homesickness, but the city was definitely daunting. I’ve never had trouble making friends, but I have noticed that only around 20% of my friends are German over here, the rest being expats.

What has been hard for you, living in Germany?

The bureaucracy really impacted me, likewise with the tax system originally. My working conditions in my first job were also deplorable but thankfully I’m out of there now!

What do you love about Germany—what makes you stay?

The people, the openness, the appreciation of all things weird, the wonderful formal kindness and the cheap rent lol

How has it been, being so far away from home?

I miss the interactions you’d have with Irish people, very individual to Ireland (as they say back home, the craic). I keep in regular contact with people back home so I’ve never felt too out of the loop.

What's a piece of advice you'd give to other Irish people thinking of moving here?

Make sure you have all of your documents ready, make sure to not lose yourself in the party culture, learn a bit of German and learn to understand the culture of the country.  🔵

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Read more of the series here. 🌎 If you’d like to contribute your story and experiences in Germany, we’d love to feature you! Write to us at hello@getworldify.com.

Living abroad isn’t always easy—especially in a historically homogenous country like Germany. But it can be hard to find some real talk amongst all the dreamy imagery. Introducing What It’s Like, a new content series. Diverse perspectives sharing candid conversations about what it’s like to be ________ in Germany. 

What it’s like to be Hungarian in Germany

Meet Anna, originally from Boston, USA 🇺🇸 and Budapest, Hungary 🇭🇺. Currently living in Berlin.

Tell us a bit about you.

I always have a hard time when people ask me where I am from, technically speaking, it would be from Boston. But my first language wasn't English—it was Hungarian. I didn't grow up in American culture, I grew up very much in Hungarian culture. And growing up, I lived half in the US and half in Budapest.

After I finished university in the US, I lived for a short time in Budapest, then moved to Berlin. I went to school for graphic design, and am currently a freelance designer and art director in Berlin.

Why Germany?

I always had a love for Germany, to be honest. I love the language—the way that written German looks, its letter forms. I especially loved the design scene in Berlin, and really wanted to be a part of it.

Tell us about life in Germany.

I loved Berlin from the minute I got here. I didn't feel any culture shock—I found the people to be way nicer than in Budapest, so I actually felt totally comfortable.

I made a lot of German friends who unfortunately ended up moving away from Berlin later on. Now, I would say that my friend group is a nice mix of Germans and expats.

What has been hard for you, living in Germany?

The Finanzamt. It was a hell on earth before I learned German. I really felt like people went out of their way to be difficult with me. But I found that once I started learning German and tried to meet them halfway, they became way more understanding. I think it always pays off to show that you are trying your best, even if you are not totally comfortable with the language yet.

What do you love about Germany—what makes you stay?

Everyone really can live however they want, there is no judgment. Everyone I have met, especially here in Berlin, is super tolerant and open-minded. I think every city wants to claim that they are this, but I don't think any of them can compare to Berlin. There is such free energy here from people all over the world. It never stops being exciting.

How has it been, being so far away from home?

I miss hearing Hungarian, but luckily I have had the luck to find a small group of Hungarian friends here. And I try and visit Budapest often, it's already comforting to me to know that it's so close.

What's a piece of advice you'd give to other Hungarians thinking of moving here?

Don't stress about not registering your new flat on time. It is literally impossible to do quickly because the appointments are so scarce. Even though they say you need to do it "in two weeks" you will be fine if you don't. 😜 Also, the radio tax is stupid, but just pay it.

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Read more of the series here. 🌎 If you’d like to contribute your story and experiences in Germany, we’d love to feature you! Write to us at hello@getworldify.com.

Are you asking yourself, "Is moving to Germany worth it?" Deciding to move to another country can be both exciting and stressful, and it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before making such a significant life change.

How to decide - is moving to Germany worth it?

With a strong economy, high quality of life, and rich cultural experiences, Germany is an attractive choice for many expats looking for a new adventure. However, there are also potential challenges that come with moving to Germany, such as the language barrier and bureaucracy. In this post, we'll explore both the benefits and the drawbacks of living in Germany to help you decide if it's the right move for you.

The pros and cons of living in Germany

The pros of living in Germany

Like any country, there are both advantages and disadvantages to moving to Germany. As we answer, "Is moving to Germany worth it?", let's explore the most important aspects in detail.

✨ High quality of life

Germany consistently ranks high in global quality of life indexes thanks to its excellent infrastructure, low crime rates, and well-developed social welfare system. In addition, Germany's cities are known for their cleanliness, green spaces, and beautifully preserved historic architecture, creating a visually appealing environment.

A strong emphasis on work-life balance contributes to a pleasant living experience in Germany. Many companies offer flexible working hours and employees enjoy a generous amount of paid vacation time. This offers the opportunity to truly relax and enjoy the country's rich culture and natural beauty.

Germany is also known for its excellent healthcare system, which is available to all residents. This means that you can rest easy knowing that you and your family will have access to high-quality medical care when you need it.

📈 Strong economy and job market

Many expats and immigrants ask themselves, "Is moving to Germany worth it?" — and one of the key factors of answering that question is evaluating the economic opportunities. Germany has one of the strongest economies in Europe, which also translates to a robust job market. Unemployment is generally low, and there is a demand for skilled workers in various industries such as engineering, IT, healthcare, and scientific research.

Germany is also home to many successful and innovative companies, including BMW, Siemens, and Adidas. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for career growth and development.

Furthermore, Germany has a strong tradition of vocational training through the "Ausbildung" system, which provides training and apprenticeships, preparing people for a wide range of careers.

🚄 Excellent public transportation

Germany boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation network that makes getting around the country relatively easy, even without a car. Major cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt are connected by high-speed trains, and local trains and buses provide access to more remote areas.

This means that you can explore all that Germany has to offer, from the bustling cities to the picturesque countryside, without having to worry about the hassle of driving and parking.

Furthermore, many cities have well-organized and accessible public transportation within city limits, such as subways, trams, and buses. Public transport is often affordable and provides an environmentally friendly alternative to private car ownership.

🎭 Rich cultural experiences

For those who enjoy arts, history, and culture, moving to Germany offers a wealth of opportunities. The country's history spans thousands of years and its cities are filled with museums, galleries, and stunning architecture to explore. Additionally, Germany is home to numerous theaters, concert venues, and dance clubs, offering a diverse range of entertainment options.

Germany also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, ranging from the world-famous Oktoberfest to local wine and beer festivals celebrating regional products. These festivals are a great way to experience German culture and connect with locals.

Another thing to consider when weighing the question, "Is moving to Germany worth it?" is the proximity to the rest of Europe. Germany's central location in the middle of the continent makes it simple (and mostly cheap!) to travel and explore the surrounding countries. If you're worried about the harsh winters, there are plenty of trains and flights that can whisk you away to Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, or northern Africa in no time at all!

🏥 Universal healthcare system

Germany's healthcare system is based on a universal healthcare model, which means that everyone living in the country has access to medical care. The system is funded by a combination of employer and employee contributions, and coverage includes medical visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.

Moving to Germany means being part of this healthcare system, which is generally known for its high-quality services and relatively short wait times for treatments.

Now that we’ve talked about the great things Germany has to offer, let’s look at some of the country’s challenges.

🎓 Education and childcare

If you have children, education costs in Germany depend on the type of school your child attends. Public schools are generally free of charge, whereas international or private schools can charge considerable tuition fees. The cost of childcare also varies, with public kindergartens being more affordable than private daycare centers.

If you're considering studying in Germany, you'll be pleased to know that tuition fees at public universities are relatively low, and many programs are taught in English.

⚽️ Leisure and entertainment

Germany offers a wide array of leisure and entertainment activities. While some options such as theater and concert tickets can be pricey, alternative choices like outdoor activities, smaller local festivals, and activities within the extensive public park system can be more affordable. Additionally, many museums offer free or reduced entrance fees for children, students, and seniors.

If you're a fan of sports, Germany has a thriving sports culture, with soccer being the most popular sport. Attending a soccer game is a unique and exciting experience that won't break the bank.

The Cons of Living in Germany

Now that we've talked about the pros, let's look at the cons. Because when answering the question, "Is moving to Germany worth it?", you must also consider the challenges of living in Germany.

🗣 Language barrier

One of the possible challenges when moving to Germany is the language barrier. Although many Germans speak English, having a basic understanding of the German language is essential for navigating everyday life, from grocery shopping to dealing with bureaucracy. The good news is that there are ample resources available for learning the language, including language courses at various levels through institutions such as the Goethe Institute.

It is also essential to note that in certain professional fields, fluency in German is crucial for finding employment and integrating into a work environment. However, learning the language can be a rewarding experience and can help you connect with locals on a deeper level.

📑 Bureaucracy and paperwork

Beyond language, one of the key things to consider when asking, "Is moving to German worth it?" is the paperwork. It's no secret that one of the major downsides of living in Germany is dealing with bureaucracy. Some might find various government bodies and agencies difficult to navigate, and the amount of required paperwork can be overwhelming. It is crucial to stay organized and have an understanding of the various processes to successfully navigate these issues.

While many official documents and procedures are available online, the language barrier might still pose difficulties in comprehending complex regulations and filing forms correctly. However, with patience and persistence, navigating the bureaucracy can be accomplished.

⛈ Weather and climate

Germany's weather is characterized by its temperate climate, with cold winters and moderate to warm summers. Some newcomers might find the winters long, dark, and cold, while others might struggle with the humidity in summer, especially in the south. The weather shouldn't be a significant detriment, but it's essential to be prepared for varying conditions.

One upside is that Germany's beautiful landscapes, including snow-covered mountains and lush green forests, can be enjoyed during different seasons. Whether you prefer skiing, hiking, or simply enjoying the scenery, there is something for everyone.

Cost of living in Germany

To decide the answer to "Is moving to Germany worth it?", it's essential to understand the cost of living in the country. While the overall cost of living in Germany is generally lower than in many of its neighboring countries, prices can vary depending on the city or region. Here's a brief overview of what to expect in terms of expenses when moving to Germany.

🏠 Housing and accommodation

The cost of housing in Germany can vary greatly depending on the specific city or region you choose. In larger cities such as Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg, rent prices are typically higher than in smaller towns or rural areas. Nevertheless, housing costs in Germany remain reasonable compared to other major European cities, like Paris and London.

It's worth noting that the rental market in Germany is highly regulated, which can make finding an apartment challenging. However, once you find a place to live, renting is a popular option. The process of purchasing property in Germany is relatively straightforward for foreigners, though mortgage interest rates and property taxes should be considered.

If you're looking for a unique housing experience, consider joining a "WG," a shared flat where you'll live with other people. This option is popular among students and young professionals and can be a great way to meet new people and save money on rent.

🍎 Food and groceries

When it comes to food and grocery shopping, Germany has a wide range of options to suit different budgets. Discount supermarkets such as Aldi and Lidl offer affordable options for everyday essentials, while more extensive supermarkets like Edeka and Rewe provide a broader range of products, including organic and international options.

If you're looking for fresh produce, head to one of Germany's many farmers' markets. Not only are the prices often lower than in supermarkets, but you'll also be supporting local farmers and producers.

Dining out in Germany can be more expensive, but there are affordable takeaway choices like the iconic currywurst or a mouthwatering kebab. If you're looking for a sit-down meal, consider visiting a traditional German pub, or "Biergarten," where you can enjoy a hearty meal and a cold beer at a reasonable price.

🚗 Transportation costs

As previously mentioned, public transportation in Germany is efficient and often affordable with various ticket options, such as monthly passes and discounts for students or seniors. However, owning a car can be expensive due to fuel prices, maintenance, taxes, and insurance costs. In many cases, relying on public transport is a more affordable and environmentally friendly-alternative.

If you're looking for a unique way to explore Germany, consider renting a bike. Many cities have bike-sharing programs, and there are also numerous bike rental shops where you can rent a bike for a day or a week.

🩺 Healthcare and insurance

While Germany's public healthcare system is highly regarded, it's essential to factor in out-of-pocket expenses, such as co-payments for prescription medications and dental care. In some cases, investing in additional private health insurance might be worthwhile to cover any gaps in public insurance coverage, and to have access to quicker appointments and private hospitals if desired.

If you're a student or self-employed, you'll need to purchase your health insurance, which can be expensive. It's worth shopping around and comparing prices to find the best deal.

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So, is moving to Germany worth it?

Moving to Germany can be a worthwhile experience for those who value a high quality of life, professional opportunities, and rich cultural experiences. While there are potential drawbacks such as the language barrier and dealing with bureaucracy, these challenges can be managed with proper preparation and realistic expectations. Ultimately, the decision whether to move to Germany should be based on weighing the pros and cons and assessing how well the country's lifestyle aligns with your needs and preferences.

Motivation letters have historically been for German student visa applications—however, we’re seeing more and more German consulates requesting motivation letters for your residence permit. It can be easy to dismiss the importance of the motivation letter—however, it is one of the most important, if not the most important, parts of your visa application.

Not a “writer”? Feeling a bit intimidated? Don’t worry. In this post, Worldify co-founder Gabrielle Soria walks us through in-depth explanations of what your motivation letter should include, how best to format it, and some common pitfalls to avoid. Let’s dive right in!

What is a motivation letter?

A motivation letter is essentially a statement of your interest and intent—why you want to move to Germany, and live and work here. Motivation letters are reviewed by the immigration authorities, who decide, based on the information and rationale you have provided, whether your presence in Germany will be beneficial to all parties involved. For this reason, it’s important to put significant effort into crafting your letter.

Successful motivation letters should follow the right format and make sure a few key points are addressed.

Formatting your motivation letter

Like most professional letters, the format of your motivation letter follows the classic format:

1. Header 
2. Introduction
3. Body
4. Conclusion

1. Header

Your header section should be formatted like a professional business letter, and include the following:

• Date
• Country in which you are applying for the visa
• Name of German Embassy/Consulate where you are applying for your German visa
• Address of German Embassy/Consulate
• where you are applying for your German visa
• Your name as it is listed on your passport
• Your contact details

2. Introduction

As you might guess, the introduction is your chance to introduce yourself. Roughly 3-4 sentences, this section should tell the authorities who you are, why you are requesting entry into Germany, and an overview of what makes you a competitive candidate to live and work in Germany. Let’s break that down: 

• Who you are: Here it’s good to include your name, nationality, age, and educational background.
• Why are you requesting entry into Germany: This is a good time to clarify for the authorities that you plan to truly settle in Germany. Cite your employment offer, your employer name, and the conditions of your contract (especially if the contract is unlimited). 
• What makes you a competitive candidate: This is a chance to overview your professional achievements. Why does the German workforce benefit from your arrival? What have you achieved in your career or contributed to your industry or past employers?

Again, this is just an overview—we’ll get into the meat of both of the “Why Germany” and “Why You” angles in the following paragraphs. 

3. Body

The main thing you want to achieve in the body of your letter is explaining your motivation for moving to Germany—whether that’s to live and work, or to study. The immigration authorities want to know your why. Why Germany, why you, why now. This section of your letter should be well-researched and thoughtful—it’s a cultural truth that German prize logic and rational reasoning. This is your chance to truly make your case, speaking directly to the decision-makers. 

“The immigration authorities want to know your why. Why Germany, why you, why now. ”

Why Germany?

You’re leaving your home country to move abroad… but you could have chosen anywhere in the world. What was it that made Germany the winning place? (Remember the goal here—an answer like: It was the only place that offered me a job isn’t going to cut it!) What you want to achieve in this section is to make the person reading it proud to be German—and to showcase your excitement and enthusiasm for your new country. 

Need a few talking points? Consider… 

• Germany is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world.
• It is a rich cultural hub, with a history of artistic and cultural achievements.
• Germany has an excellent quality of life, with emphasis on health, wellness, and safety.
• There is a strong social welfare system that emphasizes equality—making sure that no one falls behind.
• Germany is very environmentally-friendly, and prides itself on cleanliness.
• Germany is very respectful towards its citizens. The German system favors workers’ rights, and renters’ rights to be very human-centered, rather than corporate-centered. 
• With more than 100 million native speakers, German is the most widely-spoken first language in Europe, which makes the German language increasingly important in the global market

You can use the points above (and any you already have in your mind) as the basis on your research and argument. Dig into these topics and themes, and pull out the reasons you feel Germany is the right fit for you, your career, and even your family. 

Why You?

Now that you’ve covered why Germany is the right place for you, it’s time to tackle why you are right for Germany. What makes you an exciting candidate for Deutschland? What can you bring to the table? 

Some thought-starters:

• What is your professional history? What have you achieved in your career thus far? 
• What are your professional goals? What impact do you hope to have on your teams and coworkers, your industry, and the world? 
• What can you bring to the table? What makes your perspective, background, diversity, or point of view unique?

Why Now?

While this doesn’t have to take up too much of your letter, it’s always nice to explain why you’ve chosen to make this decision at this point in your life and career. 

4. Conclusion

This is your last chance to leave a strong impression on the reviewer. It should summarize again your points above, drive home your keen interest in resettling to Germany, and clear up any inconsistencies or questions a reviewer might have about your application (for example, a career change, or an academic background that doesn’t match your current employment profiles). It’s also good to include a line about your financial set-up in Germany—how you plan to support yourself (and any family members) financially.  

“If you’re not a ‘writer’, don’t worry—all that really matters for this letter is that your facts are true, and your interest is genuine.”

What to avoid in your motivation letter

• Spelling and grammar mistakes. Be sure to run your letter through the appropriate spelling and grammar checks. If you’d like a second pair of eyes, you can always ask for assistance at hello@worldify.com.
• Unprofessional email address. A personal email is okay, but avoid names like c00llord74.
• Plagiarism. Don’t copy text without attribution. 
• Lack of structure. Make sure that your letter is formatted professionally and flows from paragraph to paragraph. 
• False information. It may be tempting to dramatize or embellish your letter, but make sure that nothing is misleading or false. The authorities can definitely find out, and this can jeopardize your visa approval. 
• Lack of details. A generic, high-level letter isn’t going to impress the reviewers—and worse, might convey that you don’t value your visa application. Make sure your case is full and thorough. That said… 
• Over-writing. Your letter doesn’t need to be the next War and Peace. Make it clear, concise, and well-reasoned… aim for one page, two at the max.  

If you’re not a “writer”, don’t worry—all that really matters for your motivation letter is that your facts are true, and your interest is genuine.