Berlin is one of the most international cities in Europe. Around 20 percent of the population does not hold a German passport, and in some districts English is as widespread as German. Nevertheless, there are a few hurdles for expats: bureaucracy, the housing market, language barriers at government offices. Knowing these challenges in advance means getting off to a better-prepared start.
Living in Berlin as an Expat
For most expats, finding a place to live is the first major challenge. The classic Berlin housing market relies on SCHUFA, a German salary account, and payslips. Anyone without all of this has little chance. The most pragmatic solution for getting started: furnished apartments on a temporary basis.
On platforms such as Farawayhome Berlin you can find furnished apartments with no SCHUFA requirement, bookable from one month, all-inclusive.
Bureaucracy for Expats in Berlin
Step |
What to do |
Timeframe |
Find an apartment |
Furnished transitional apartment as a starting point |
Before arrival |
Registration (Anmeldung) |
Bürgeramt, landlord confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung) |
Within 2 weeks of moving in |
Bank account |
N26 or another online bank |
1 to 3 days |
Health insurance |
Through employer or directly |
From the start of employment |
Tax ID |
Arrives automatically after registration |
2 to 4 weeks |
Residence permit (non-EU) |
Ausländerbehörde (immigration office) |
4 to 12 weeks |
Life in Berlin as an Expat
Berlin is a city where you can get by well in English as an expat. Restaurants, supermarkets, tech companies, co-working spaces: English works almost everywhere. However, a bit of German also helps at government offices and with landlords. Most Berlin expats recommend starting a German course alongside settling in.
Best Districts for Expats
Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg are the classic expat districts: a lively community, many international faces, good co-working spaces. Prenzlauer Berg is more popular with expat families. Charlottenburg attracts professionals who prefer peace and quiet and good infrastructure.
For those working in Hamburg or Munich but considering Berlin as a place to live: the range of furnished apartments in Hamburg and furnished apartments in Munich is similarly well positioned.
Expat Community in Berlin
Berlin has a very active expat community. Meetup groups, Slack communities, InterNations events: like-minded people are easy to find. Co-working spaces are often a good first point of contact, since many international professionals meet there.
Conclusion
Berlin is an excellent city for expats: international, open, with good infrastructure. The bureaucracy is challenging but manageable. Those who arrive well prepared quickly find their way.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can expats quickly find an apartment in Berlin?
The fastest way is through furnished apartments on a temporary basis, which don't require a SCHUFA and are often available within a few days.
2. Do I need German language skills as an expat in Berlin?
Not necessarily for everyday life. However, German helps considerably at government offices and for social integration.
3. Which district is best for expats in Berlin?
Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg for younger expats. Prenzlauer Berg for families. Charlottenburg for professionals.
4. How do I build up a SCHUFA as an expat in Germany?
Through a German bank account, paying bills on time, and a mobile phone contract. After six to twelve months you will have built up a history.
5. Is there an active expat community in Berlin?
Yes, very active. Meetup groups, co-working events, and online communities make it easy to find like-minded people.
Guide: Expat Guide Berlin