Last updated: 23 October 2026

Germany has Europe’s largest economy, a big demand for skilled workers and some of its most liveable cities. Since Brexit, UK citizens need a residence permit to live and work there, but Germany has made it easier for skilled workers to move. This guide covers 2026 visas, registration, healthcare, tax and the cost of living.

Yes. As a British citizen you can enter Germany without a visa and stay for up to 90 days in any 180. You can usually apply for your residence permit in Germany after arriving, rather than from the UK, but you can’t work until it is granted.

Visa and residence options

Rules and salary thresholds change each year. Check the official Make it in Germany site or the German embassy before applying.

First steps after you arrive

1. Anmeldung: register your address at the local Bürgeramt within two weeks.
2. Tax ID (Steuer-ID): sent by post after you register.
3. Health insurance: compulsory. Most employees join public insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung); high earners and freelancers may choose private.
4. Bank account: needed for rent and salary.
5. Residence permit appointment: at the Ausländerbehörde (foreigners’ office). Book early, because waits can be long in big cities.

Cost of living in Germany

Indicative 2026 figures. Rents vary a lot by area.

The nationwide Deutschlandticket covers local and regional public transport across Germany for one monthly price.

Removals and moving your belongings

Most moves go by road via the Channel and take 1–4 days. See our removals to Germany guide for costs and the customs form 0350, plus déménagements internationaux au départ du Royaume-Uni.

Tips for living in Germany

• Learn German. English is common in Berlin and tech jobs, but German helps with bureaucracy and social life.
• Rent with care: many rentals come without a kitchen, and landlords ask for a SCHUFA credit report.
• Sundays are quiet: most shops close.
• Bring documents: degree certificates, birth and marriage certificates, sometimes with apostilles and translations.

Planning the move? Use our moving abroad checklist et moving money abroad guides.

Reach Germany by sea

Container and ro-ro ships link the UK with Hamburg and Bremerhaven. See exploring Europe by ship.

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