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Working in Germany
Capital: Berlin
Largest city: Berlin
Population: 80.2 million (2011 census)
Currency: Euro
Language: German
Germany is located in central Europe and has a population of more than 80 million people, the most of any nation on the continent.
The country shares a border with Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, France and Luxembourg to the south-west and Belgium and the Netherlands to the north-west. Germany consists of 16 states, with its capital and largest city being Berlin.
Germany is currently the economic power of Europe and one of the largest economies in the world. Its culture echoes throughout the world through famous composers, scientists, inventors, food and automobiles.
The Working Holiday program between Australia and Germany was setup to encourage cultural exchange and closer ties between the two countries by allowing young people to have an extended holiday funded by short-term employment.
Under the arrangement, Australians aged between 18 and 30 are allowed to travel to Germany for a working holiday for up to 12 months.
There is a quota of just 500 visas for Australian citizens, operating on a first-in, first-served basis dependent on eligibility.
Tourism Video
Germany’s Working Holiday visa summary
Visa: Working holiday
Age: 18 to 30
Length of stay: 12 months
Application fee: $30
Processing time: 2 weeks
Requirements / Eligibility for a Working Holiday in Germany
If you want to travel to Germany under Working Holiday arrangements there are basic eligibility requirements. These include, but are not limited to:
Hold an Australian passport
Meet health and character requirements
Be aged between 18 and 30 at the time of applying
Have no dependent children accompanying you
Have a return ticket, or sufficient funds for a return or onward fare
Have sufficient funds for the first part of the holiday (at least $400 per month)
Each job cannot last longer than 90 days
Emergency
Emergency telephone numbers
Police 110
Ambulance & Fire 112
Australian Embassy, Berlin
Wallstrasse 76-79
10179 Berlin
Federal Republic of Germany
Telephone: (49 30) 880 0880
Facsimile: (49 30) 8800 88238
Website: www.germany.embassy.gov.au
Australian Consulate, Munich
Pranner Str. 8
80333
Munich
Federal Republic of Germany
Tax System
Germany’s tax system is complex. It is recommended that expats in Germany research the system, or hire an accountant for any financial matters. The country’s tax year is the same as the calendar year.
Once settled in Germany for at least six months, expats have full income liability for earnings recorded both domestically and internationally. The rate of income tax in Germany ranges from 0% to 45% on a progressive rate and dependent on how much is earned.
In 2013, Germany allowed a tax free allowance of €8130. Income above this amount is taxed at a starting rate of 14%, with a maximum rate of 45% for high income earners. There is also a solidarity tax of 5.5%, and if you are affiliated to a religious community a compulsory church tax.
Bank Account
Like most things in Germany, banking is an efficient, well explained function in the country, no matter how it is undertaken. Opening a bank account as an expat in Germany requires several pieces of documentation, including: proof of registration, proof of German address, passport, and (if applicable) student identification. Each bank account will usually include a debit card, overdraft facility, option to open a savings account and more.
The major banks in Germany include: Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank and European Central Bank. Many foreign banks are also found in Germany.
Working in Germany
Germany is the leading economy in Europe and has stabilised the continent following the global financial crisis. The financial capital city of Germany is Frankfurt. The primary industries of Germany include automobiles, machinery, steel, iron, coal, electronics, and food and beverages.
Expats in the country may find work teaching English. Despite the language being widely taught and spoken in there is demand for tuition, especially at higher levels. Another industry to consider is agriculture, which would also provide a great way to see more of the country. This is ideal for exploring Germany, to enjoy the outdoors and to supplement your stay with a small amount of funds.
Communication
Germany has outstanding telecommunications facilities and services. There are several mobile phone providers for expats to choose from in Germany. The major telecommunications companies in Germany are:
O2
T-Mobile
Vodafone
E-plus
To sign-up for a phone contract in Germany, applicants will need to provide identification, such as a passport, proof of address in Germany and proof of employment.
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