How to Settle in Germany Without Speaking German
Moving to a new country comes with its share of challenges, and language is often one of the biggest. In Germany, where German is the official language, many newcomers worry about how they’ll cope without fluency. The good news is that it’s entirely possible to settle in, especially in larger cities where English is widely spoken. From finding a job to handling daily tasks, there are practical ways to navigate life without speaking German while gradually learning along the way. This guide will walk you through how to make the most of your move and build a comfortable life in Germany, even as an English speaker.
1. Choose the Right City
Some cities in Germany are far more English-friendly than others. If you don’t speak German yet, it’s wise to start off in a place where English is commonly used.Best cities for English speakers:
I.Berlin – International, artistic, and startup-friendly.
II.Munich – Expensive but home to many global companies.
III.Frankfurt – Financial hub with a diverse expat community.
IV.Hamburg – Trendy, modern, and relatively English-accessible.
Smaller towns are more traditional and often require basic German even for day-to-day activities.
2. Finding Accommodation
Finding a place to live can be one of the toughest parts of moving to Germany, especially with a language barrier. However, many platforms now cater to international renters.
Recommended Platforms:
I.Wunderflats – Furnished apartments, ideal for short- to mid-term stays
II.HousingAnywhere – For students and young professionals
III.Immowelt.de or WG – Gesucht.de – Shared flats, popular with locals (may require some German)
Tips:
- Have documents ready (ID, proof of income, visa/residence permit).
- Use translation tools like Google Translate or DeepL when contacting landlords.
- Consider starting with a short-term rental while you get settled.
3. Getting a Job Without German
There are many jobs in Germany that don’t require German fluency, especially in fields like tech, engineering, marketing, and hospitality.
Job search websites:
III.LinkedIn Germany
IV.StepStone (use filters for “English only” roles)
Industries to consider:
I.Tech startups and IT
II.Multinational corporations
III.English teaching
IV.Tourism and hospitality (especially in Berlin or Munich)
4. Paperwork & Bureaucracy
Germany is known for its love of paperwork. Unfortunately, most official documents and forms are in German.
Steps to take:
- Bring a translator (friend or hire someone) when registering your address or applying for a visa.
- Use services like Expatrio, Settle-in Berlin, or Justlanded to help with forms.
- Consider hiring a relocation agency for a smoother transition.
Must-do paperwork:
- Anmeldung (registering your address)
- Opening a German bank account
- Health insurance registration
- Applying for your resident permit (if needed)
5. Daily Life: Shopping, Transport, and More
Daily tasks like grocery shopping or taking the train can seem daunting without German, but it gets easier with time.
Shopping tips:
- Most cashiers speak basic English, especially in big cities.
- Bring a reusable bag (you have to pay for plastic).
- Use Google Translate camera mode to read labels.
Transport tips:
- DB Navigator (Deutsche Bahn) for train schedules.
- Use Google Maps or Citymapper for public transport routes.
- Always validate your ticket before boarding.
6. Making Friends and Building a Community
Settling in goes beyond logistics; you’ll want to feel at home, too. Finding people you can relate to helps a lot.
Where to connect:
I.Meetup.com – Find events based on interests
II.Internations.org – Expat meetups
III.Facebook groups like “Expats in Germany”, “Africans in Germany”, or city-specific groups
7. Learn German ( Start with basics)
You don’t need to be fluent right away, but learning key phrases can make your life 10x easier.
Start with:
- Greetings and introductions
- Asking for directions
- Shopping and dining phrases
Where to learn:
- Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Mondly
- YouTube channels like Learn German with Anja
- Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or MondlyFree integration courses offered to immigrants (check local offers).
Conclusion
Moving to Germany without speaking German is definitely possible, and thousands have done it successfully. With the right mindset, tools, and support, you can build a beautiful life in Germany even as a non-German speaker. Over time, the language will come, and until then, you’ve got apps, community, and this guide to help you navigate.
