12 reasons to leave Germany

Thinking of moving to Germany? Before you pack your bags, discover the reasons why many foreigners leave Germany now. The truth might surprise you. Keep reading to learn the real reasons behind the departures and find out if Germany is still the right choice for you.

1. Job Hunt Struggle

Although Germany endlessly speaks of a lack of skilled workers and its intention to attract foreign workforce, in practice, it is not easy for foreigners to find a job in Germany. Many companies are hesitant to hire foreign specialists. It's not uncommon for foreign professionals to move to Germany for work, to then lose their job within a few months and find it nearly impossible to secure a new one. In such cases, they are given a short amount of time to find a new job or they must leave the country. This frustration often leads to thoughts of relocating to a less conservative country or going back home, which has foreigners leaving Germany as a result.

2. Housing Challenges and Discrimination

Finding affordable housing in Germany, especially in major cities, can be incredibly challenging. The housing market is tight, and foreigners often face additional hurdles, including discrimination from landlords who prefer renting to locals. This situation makes settling down difficult and can add a significant financial burden to newcomers.

3. High Living Costs and Taxation

Germany has a high cost of living, and after paying taxes and rent, many people find that they have little money left for other expenses. For instance, someone earning €50,000 brutto annually might pay around €18,000 in taxes and social contributions, leaving €32,000 for living expenses. This is around 2,600 euros per month. Taking into consideration that an apartment in big cities costs 1,000-2,000 euros, there is not much money left. Therefore, many foreign people experience a downgrade of their life in comparison to what they would have in their home country even if they earned half as much there. That is one of the common reasons why foreigners leave Germany. To get a clearer idea of living costs in Germany, you can refer to our detailed video on the subject.

4. Limited Career Progression Opportunities

While Germany offers numerous job opportunities, the career progression for foreigners can sometimes be limited due to various factors, including language barriers and corporate culture differences. Many expatriates feel they hit a ceiling sooner than expected. That’s why many foreigners leave Germany or open their own business in Germany.

Our company, Nexus-Europe GmbH, assists foreigners with starting and developing their own successful business in Germany and moving to Germany through business.

5. Bureaucracy

Germany's bureaucracy is a real nightmare. The process of applying for residence permits and other legal documents can be cumbersome, with long waiting times and a lot of paperwork. This inefficiency is often frustrating and discouraging for newcomers trying to establish their lives.

6. Waiting Times

From medical appointments to public transportation, waiting is a common experience in Germany. Deutsche Bahn, the national railway, is often criticized for delays, and getting timely appointments with specialists or even receiving deliveries is a lengthy process.

7. Language Barrier

Many Germans, especially in smaller cities, do not speak English. German is also considered a difficult language to learn. This language barrier can make daily life, work, and social integration challenging for non-German speakers. Many foreign people feel isolated and not accepted, which may result is those foreigners leaving Germany. 

8. Social Integration

Making friends and integrating into the German social life can also be very difficult for foreigners. Germans are known for being reserved, and it may take time to build meaningful relationships. This cultural difference can be a significant hurdle for those coming from more socially open countries and make them think about leaving Germany.

9. Digitalization Issues

Germany’s digital infrastructure is surprisingly underdeveloped. Internet speed can be slow, and many government processes still rely on physical paperwork and letters. This lack of digital efficiency can be surprising and frustrating for people who are used to more advanced systems.

10. Weather

Germany’s weather can be challenging, especially for those coming from sunnier climates. Winters are long, cold, and grey, with frequent rain. This can be a stark contrast to the sunny and warm weather of countries like India or Spain, potentially leading to seasonal depression. For many, that can be a reason why foreigners leave Germany to eliminate the factor they cannot change.

11. Limited Career Opportunities for Partners

For those moving with a partner, it can be challenging if the partner does not speak German or have qualifications recognized in Germany. This situation can limit job opportunities and create additional stress.

12. Education System Challenges

For those with children, the German education system can be a mixed bag. While it offers high-quality education, the system can be difficult to understand. Additionally, the tracking system, which places students on different educational paths at a young age, can be controversial and challenging for families accustomed to different educational systems.

While these challenges are real and may be a reason for leaving Germany, they don't diminish the many benefits of living in Germany. We have multiple articles about living in Germany, business in Germany, working in Germany. Make sure to check them out.

If you are considering moving to Germany, especially for business opportunities, our company offers comprehensive services to help you establish a successful business in Germany and move to Germany through business.