Nestled along the famed Romantic Road in Bavaria, *Rothenburg ob der Tauber* is a living fairy tale—a perfectly preserved medieval town that looks as though it was plucked straight from the pages of a storybook. With its half-timbered houses, cobbled lanes, and towering walls, Rothenburg is one of Germany’s most picturesque and enchanting destinations. Whether you're a history lover, a holiday enthusiast, or simply in search of old-world charm, this town offers a magical experience year-round.

**Must-See Attractions in Rothenburg o.d. Tauber**

#### 1. **Plönlein (Little Square)**
The most photographed spot in Rothenburg, the *Plönlein* is a charming fork in the road flanked by a tilted yellow timbered house, with two medieval towers in the background—the *Siebersturm* and *Kobolzeller Tor*.
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#### 2. **Rothenburg Christmas Museum (Deutsches Weihnachtsmuseum)**
Open all year round, the *German Christmas Museum* is located above the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village. This enchanting museum walks visitors through the history of Christmas traditions in Germany, featuring everything from antique ornaments and nutcrackers to historic Advent calendars. Come in December, and the entire town transforms into a real-life Christmas market.

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#### 3. **Town Walls (Stadtmauer)**
One of Rothenburg’s most thrilling experiences is walking the medieval walls that still encircle the town. These fortifications offer panoramic views of the red-tiled rooftops, towers, and the surrounding Tauber Valley. Access points are located all around the town, and walking the full circuit takes about an hour.

#### 4. **Town Hall (Rathaus) & Market Square**
The *Rathaus* stands proudly in the Market Square with its striking Renaissance facade and a 200-step tower that rewards climbers with sweeping views. The square itself is the heart of Rothenburg, hosting festivals, open-air concerts, and the beloved Christmas Market in winter.

![IMG_1269.jpeg](https://res.cloudinary.com/dlaaqibsp/image/upload/v1745925740/IMG_1269_0a2eb981f4.jpg)
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#### 5. **Medieval Crime and Justice Museum (Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum)**
Dive into the darker side of medieval history with this fascinating and sometimes chilling museum. Explore historical legal systems, torture instruments, and public punishments from the Middle Ages through the 19th century. It's both educational and unforgettable.

#### 6. **St. James’s Church (St. Jakobskirche)**
This impressive Gothic church is famous for housing the *Holy Blood Altarpiece* carved by Tilman Riemenschneider, one of Germany’s greatest wood sculptors. It’s a place of quiet reflection, art, and religious history.

#### 7. **Castle Garden (Burggarten)**
Though Rothenburg’s original castle was destroyed in an earthquake in the 14th century, its beautiful gardens remain. The *Burggarten* offers tranquil paths, floral displays, and spectacular views over the Tauber River valley—a perfect spot for a scenic break.

**Getting There**

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is easily accessible by train from major German cities like Nuremberg, Frankfurt, and Munich. It’s often included as a highlight stop on tours of the Romantic Road.

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Travel

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: A Timeless Gem of Medieval Germany

When searching for an apartment or house to rent in Germany, you'll often encounter two key amounts: cold rent (**Kaltmiete**) and additional costs (**Nebenkosten**). Together, these make up the warm rent (**Warmmiete**).

**What is Cold Rent (Kaltmiete)?**

Cold Rent: This is the base rent for the property, excluding any additional costs.

**What is Warm Rent (Warmmiete)?**

Warm Rent: This is the total rent amount, including cold rent plus additional costs (Nebenkosten). Always consider the warm rent as your final rental cost.

**Additional Costs (Nebenkosten)**
Nebenkosten are additional expenses that may not cover all monthly bills. Always read the rental ad and contract carefully to understand what is included. 

Nebenkosten can cover, but are not limited to:

**Heating Costs**: Expenses for heating the apartment.

**Furniture and Appliances**: Costs for any provided furniture or appliances (e.g., kitchen, washing machine).

**Building Maintenance**: Charges for cleaning and maintenance of common areas.

**Garbage Collection**: Fees for waste management.

**Water Usage**: Costs for water consumption.

**Factors Influencing Nebenkosten**

**Living Space**: Larger apartments generally have higher Nebenkosten.

**Location**: Costs vary between cities and even within different areas of a city.

**Important Tips**:

**Payment Method**: Never pay rent before signing the contract. Always use bank transfers for payments.

**Read Carefully**: Ensure you understand what is included in Nebenkosten and any additional costs you might incur.

By keeping these points in mind, you can avoid surprises and better manage your rental expenses. Happy house hunting!







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Living

Understanding Rent in Germany

Germany is renowned for its efficient waste disposal and recycling system. Understanding how to properly sort and dispose of waste is crucial for residents and visitors alike. Here's a guide to help you navigate the process.

**Waste Categories and Bins**
In Germany, waste is meticulously sorted into different categories, each with its own designated bin. Here are the main types:

**Residual Waste (Restmüll)**

- **Black or Grey Bin**: For non-recyclable waste.

_Examples_: Hygiene products, cigarette butts, old pens, and broken ceramics.
Organic Waste (Biomüll)

- **Brown Bin**: For compostable organic waste.

_Examples_: Food scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, and garden waste.
Paper and Cardboard (Papier)

- **Blue Bin**: For paper products.

_Examples_: Newspapers, magazines, cardboard boxes, and paper packaging.
Packaging Waste (Verpackungsmüll)

- **Yellow Bin/Bag**: For recyclable packaging.

_Examples_: Plastic containers, metal cans, Tetra Packs, and composite materials.
Glass (Glas)

- **Glass Containers**: Typically sorted by color (white, green, brown).

_Examples_: Bottles, jars, and glass containers.

_Note_: Separate collection points are usually located in neighbourhoods.

- **Electronic Waste (Elektroschrott)**

_Designated Collection Points_: For electronic items.

_Examples_: Old phones, batteries, and small appliances.

_Note_: Many supermarkets and electronic stores have drop-off points for small electronics and batteries.

- **Special Waste (Sondermüll)**

_Special Collection Points_: For hazardous materials.

_Examples_: Paint, chemicals, and medical waste.

_Note_: Local recycling centers handle special waste.


**How to Sort and Dispose of Waste**

**Separate at Source**:

Start by separating your waste at home into the categories mentioned above.

- **Follow Local Guidelines**:

Each municipality may have specific rules and schedules for waste collection.
Check your local guidelines.

- **Use Appropriate Bags**:

Use _biodegradable_ bags for organic waste.

Use _yellow_ bags provided by the municipality for packaging waste.

- **Rinse Packaging**:

Rinse plastic and metal packaging to avoid attracting pests and to make recycling more efficient.

- **Flatten and Fold**:

Flatten cardboard boxes to save space in the blue bin.

- **Proper Disposal of Glass**:

Remove caps and lids.
Use the correct container based on the color of the glass.

- **Dispose of Electronics Responsibly**:

Take old electronics to designated collection points. Never throw them in the residual waste bin.

- **Handle Special Waste Carefully**:

Follow specific instructions for disposing of hazardous materials to avoid environmental contamination.


**Benefits of Proper Waste Disposal**

- **Environmental Protection**:

Reduces landfill waste and lowers pollution.

Conserves natural resources by recycling materials.

- **Economic Efficiency**:

Lowers waste management costs through efficient recycling programs.

Creates jobs in the recycling and waste management sectors.

- **Community Health**:

Prevents pest infestations and reduces health risks associated with improper waste disposal.

By following these guidelines, you contribute to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable environment in Germany. Proper waste disposal is not only a civic duty but also a vital part of maintaining the country's high environmental standards.

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Proper Waste Disposal and Recycling in Germany

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You have decided to stay loner than 6 months in Germany? - then changing your current driving license for a German one is the right thing to do.

### Change of the driving license

The rules about driving license and it's validity are very simple, from the date you first enter Germany (cross the border) you can use your driving license for up to 6 months.
_Make sure you check first is your driving license recognised in Germany - if not, you will need an international driving license._

So it is a good idea to book a new appointment at the **city office** or at the **KfZ** for a _Führerscheine und Fahrerlaubnisse_ => _Umschreibung einer ausländischen Fahrerlaubnis_ (replacement of your driver license with German).

**Important**: If you miss to make an appointment in the first 6 months, then you wouldn't be able to change your driving license for a German one, as well if you want to have a German driving license you will need to take classes in Fahrschule (driving school) as a beginner.

At the day of the appointment, make sure you get at the address at least 10 minutes ahead and bring the necessary documents.

The minimum set of documents are:
- Your passport
- Your current driving license
- The reservation letter with the QR code (or similar)
- Have some 50 euro in cash, payment with EC or card in general is not always possible.
- 1 passport size photo.

**Tip** : make sure you check all other requirements that might apply to you depending on your country of origin, the driving category you are switching etc. Within the email body with the confirmation of your appointment you should have a full list items that are needed.

Once you enter the building, you just need to scan your QR code and wait until your number pops up on the screen with an info at which desk/counter you need to go.

The procedure is very simple and almost no German language is needed (at least if there are no some complex scenarios in your request e.g not having some documents etc)

If your documents are accepted, you should then pay around 50 euro and wait for some 4-6 weeks to get your new German driving license.




Одлучивте да останете подолго од 6 месеци во Германија? - тогаш заменувањето на вашата тековна возачка дозвола со германска е вистинската работа.

### Замена на возачката дозвола

Правилата за возачката дозвола и нејзината валидност се многу едноставни. 
Од датумот кога првпат ќе влезете во Германија (кога ќе добиете печат за влез на пасошка контрола), можете да ја користите вашата возачка постоечка дозвола во 6 месеци.

_Осигурете се прво да проверите дали вашата возачка дозвола е призната во Германија - ако не, ќе ви треба меѓународна возачка дозвола._

За промена, добра идеја е да закажете нов состанок во **општината** или во **KfZ** за _Führerscheine und Fahrerlaubnisse_ => _Umschreibung einer ausländischen Fahrerlaubnis_ (замена на вашата возачка дозвола со германска).

**Важно**: Ако не закажете состанок во првите 6 месеци, тогаш нема да можете да ја замените вашата возачка дозвола за германска. После изминати 6 месеци и не промената возачка дозвола - доколку сакате да имате германска возачка дозвола, ќе треба да посетувате часови во Fahrschule (автошкола) како почетник.

На денот на состанокот, осигурете се да пристигнете на адресата најмалку 10 минути порано и донесете ги потребните документи.

Минималниот сет на документи е:
- Вашиот пасош
- Вашата тековна возачка дозвола
- Писмото за резервација со QR кодот (или слично)
- Имајте околу 50 евра во готово, плаќањето со EC или картичка не е секогаш можно.
- 1 фотографија во пасош формат.

**Совет**: Осигурете се дека ќе ги проверите сите други ставки што може да се однесуваат на вас во зависност од вашата земја на потекло, категоријата на возење што ја менувате и сл. Во е-поштата со потврдата за вашиот состанок треба да има целосен список на потребни документи.

Откако ќе влезете во зградата, само треба да го скенирате вашиот QR код и да почекате вашиот број да се појави на екранот со информација на кој шалтер треба да одите.

Процедурата е многу едноставна и скоро нема потреба од познавање на германскиот јазик (освен ако нема некои сложени сценарија во вашето барање, на пр. некои документи да недостасуваат и сл.)

Ако вашите документи се прифатени, ќе треба да платите околу 50 евра и да почекате околу 4-6 недели за да ја добиете вашата нова германска возачка дозвола.

Промена на возачка дозвола

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Regulation

Change of your driving license

Dreaming of an extended stay in Germany?  Whether for business or pleasure, a German residence permit grants you the freedom to explore beyond the 90-day tourist visa.

### Simplifying the Application Process:

The good news is, obtaining a residence permit can be a smooth and efficient process. Here's a breakdown for different applicant groups:

Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and Other Select Countries: Enjoy the convenience of applying for your residence permit after arriving in Germany.

All Other Nationalities: You can either apply for your residence permit before entering Germany or follow the streamlined process for US, Canada, etc., citizens upon arrival.

### Convenient Application Steps:

- Locate Your German Embassy or Consulate: Our network of embassies and consulates is readily available online, ensuring you find the one closest to you.
- Schedule Your Appointment: Optimize your time by booking a free appointment online before your application submission.
- Gather Required Documentation: The embassy or consulate will provide a clear list of documents needed for your specific situation.
- Submit Your Application and Relax: Once submitted, allow 1-3 months for processing.
- Receive Your Residence Permit (Visa): Upon approval, you'll receive a visa that serves as your official residence permit.
- Local Registration Upon Arrival: Finalize your residency status by registering with the local authorities in Germany.

Please check the following [website](https://www.germany.info/us-en/service/visa/family-reunion/922294) to find all relevant forms for visa application.

### Expert Guidance:

While slight variations may occur depending on your location, our embassies and consulates are equipped to guide you through the process efficiently.

### Embrace Your German Adventure:

Don't let visa concerns limit your German experience. With a residence permit, you're ready to unlock all that Germany has to offer.  Get started today and embark on your exciting German journey!

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Family reunion

If you’ve recently moved to Germany or are planning to, registering and paying for utilities will be one of your key tasks. Utilities (gas, electricity, water, internet, etc.) are essential for daily life, and it’s important to understand how to manage them to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

### Understand the Utilities You Need
In Germany, utilities are usually divided into several main categories:

- Electricity (Strom)
- Gas (Gas)
- Water (Wasser)
- Heating (Heizung)
- Waste Disposal (Müllentsorgung)

Depending on where you live and whether you rent or own a property, you might need to register for all of these or just some. People who rent, often take care only for the Electricity and Heating while everything else is already part of the Nebenkosten.

### Electricity (Strom) and Gas (Gas)
When you move into a new apartment or house, you’ll need to register with an electricity and/or gas provider. Many buildings in Germany use gas for heating, but this depends on the region and the specific property.

You have two options:

**Use the default supplier**: If you do nothing, you’ll automatically be connected to the local utility company. However, the default rate may not be the most cost-effective.

**Choose a new provider**: There are many energy companies in Germany, and you can compare rates online. Websites like Check24 or Verivox allow you to compare providers and find the best deals.

[![Gas](https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=2126204&v=9364&q=332942&r=1664867)](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=2126204&v=9364&q=332942&r=1664867)

[![Electricity](https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=2126209&v=9364&q=332944&r=1664867)](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=2126209&v=9364&q=332944&r=1664867)

### Water (Wasser)
Water is usually managed by the local municipality, and in most cases, you don’t need to register separately if you’re renting. The costs for water and waste disposal are typically included in your monthly Nebenkosten (additional costs) if you are renting an apartment.

If you own a property, you may need to register with the local water provider. This will be indicated in your Hausgeld (homeowners' association fees).
 
### Heating (Heizung)
**Central heating**: If your building has central heating, you won’t need to register for gas or heating separately. The costs will be included in your Nebenkosten.

**Individual heating systems**: If your apartment has its own gas heating system, you’ll need to register with a gas supplier.

### Waste Disposal (Müllentsorgung)
In Germany, waste disposal is managed by the local authorities and is often included in your Nebenkosten if you’re renting. Different bins are provided for recycling, organic waste, and residual waste. You typically don’t need to register separately, but check with your landlord to confirm.

To avoid any penalties for wrong disposal, learn how to do a proper waste disposal [here](https://germanyfordummies.de/en/posts/proper-waste-disposal-and-recycling-in-germany)

Additionally you might like to have an internet connection and tv in your home.

In Germany there are a variety of internet and TV providers, such as Vodafone, Telekom, and 1&1. You can compare providers using Check24 or Verivox for the best rates.

Note that setting up an internet connection can take 1–2 weeks, so plan ahead.


[![Fiber optic](https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=3421529&v=11463&q=332747&r=1664867)](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=3421529&v=11463&q=332747&r=1664867)

### When you move out of your apartment or house, make sure to:

- Take final meter readings for electricity, gas, and water.
- Cancel your contracts with the utility providers, giving at least 4 weeks’ notice.
- Transfer utilities to the new tenant or new owner (if applicable).

Failure to cancel your utilities can result in you being charged for a property you no longer live in!

Доколку неодамна се преселивте во Германија или планирате тоа да го направите, регистрацијата и плаќањето на комуналните услуги ќе биде една од вашите клучни задачи. Комуналните услуги (струја, гас, вода, интернет итн.) се неопходни за секојдневието, и важно е да го разберете начинот на управување со нив за да се избегнат непријатни изненадувања.

### Разберете ги комуналните услуги kои Ви требаат

Во Германија, комуналните услуги обично се поделени во неколку главни категории:

Струја (Strom)
Гас (Gas)
Вода (Wasser)
Греење (Heizung)
Отстранување на Отпад (Müllentsorgung)

Во зависност од тоа каде живеете и дали изнајмувате или поседувате имот, можеби ќе треба да се регистрирате за сите или само за некои од услугите. Луѓето кои изнајмуваат, најчесто се грижат само за струјата и греењето, додека сè друго е веќе дел од Nebenkosten (дополнителни трошоци)

### Струја (Strom) и Гас (Gas)
Кога ќе се преселите во нов стан или куќа, ќе треба да се регистрирате кај снабдувач со струја и/или гас.  Многу згради во Германија користат гас за греење, но ова зависи од регионот и специфичната сопственост.

Имате две опции:

**Користете го стандардниот снабдувач**: Ако не преземете никакви активности, ќе бидете автоматски поврзани со локалната комунална компанија. Сепак, стандардната тарифа можеби не е најисплатливата.

**Изберете нов снабдувач**: Во Германија има многу компании за енергија, и можете да ги споредите тарифите онлајн.  Веб-страници како Check24 или Verivox ви овозможуваат да ги споредите снабдувачите и да ги најдете најдобрите понуди.

[![Gas](https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=2126204&v=9364&q=332942&r=1664867)](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=2126204&v=9364&q=332942&r=1664867)

[![Electricity](https://www.awin1.com/cshow.php?s=2126209&v=9364&q=332944&r=1664867)](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?s=2126209&v=9364&q=332944&r=1664867)

### Вода (Wasser)
Водата обично е под контрола на локалната општина, и во повеќето случаи, не треба да се регистрирате посебно ако изнајмувате.  Трошоците за вода и отстранување на отпад обично се вклучени во вашите месечни Nebenkosten (дополнителни трошоци) ако изнајмувате стан.

Доколку поседувате имот, можеби ќе треба да се регистрирате кај локалниот снабдувач со вода.  Ова ќе биде наведено во вашиот Hausgeld (такси за здружение на сопственици на станови).

### Греење (Heizung)
Централно греење: Ако вашата зграда има централно греење, нема потреба да се регистрирате посебно за гас или греење.  Трошоците ќе бидат вклучени во вашите Nebenkosten.

Индивидуелни системи за греење: Ако вашиот стан има сопствен систем за греење со гас, ќе треба да се регистрирате кај снабдувач со гас.

### Отстранување на Отпад (Müllentsorgung)
Во Германија, отстранувањето на отпад е под контрола на локалните власти и често е вклучено во вашите Nebenkosten ако изнајмувате.  Се обезбедуваат различни контејнери за рециклирање, органски отпад и остаточен отпад.  Обично не треба да се регистрирате посебно, но проверете кај вашиот сопственик на стан за да потврдите.

За да избегнете казни за неправилно отстранување, научете како правилно да го отстранувате отпадот.

### Кога ќе се иселите од живеалиштето, не заборавајте:
- Да ги исчитате последните броеви од мерачите за вода, струја и гас.
- Откажете ги договорите со комуналните провајдери / компании, испратете известување 1 месец претходно.
- Префрлете ги договорите на новиот станар (ако е возможно).

Доколку не успеете да ги направите овие чекори, можно е да имате додатни непредвидени трошоци.

Регистрација и плаќање на комунални услуги 

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How to register and pay for utilities in Germany

Once you move in to Germany you will need a mobile phone number so you can easily complete your day to day activities, as well you will need it to make calls, access the internet etc. but most useful is if you don't know German language well, so you will need to do a lot of translations online.

### Why is german phone number needed

Creating online accounts at many places require for you to have a valid german phone number. 
- It is needed for opening a bank account and online banking
- Retail and delivery services
- Register to the city's online services 

### How to get a number

The most simple way would be to go to a store in person and bring your passport with you. If you don't have a bank account that support SEPA transfers then definetly it would be easier for you to get a pre-paid sim card for start.

Your card will be instantly available and ready to be used. For a short period getting a Lyca mobile number might be the best option when you compare the offer vs price.

The best way to select what suits you the most and to get a good value for your money, use the [Check24](https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?gid=332974&mid=9364&awinaffid=1664867&linkid=2126275&clickref=), do a "Mobilfunk" search. You can compare between different network providers, prices, conditions etc.

### Port-in number

It is easy to transfer your phone number from one operator to another, but it must be a German phone number. This will allow you to use the same number and just switch network operators, but note that you will need to wait some 1 to 2 weeks after the port-in request, before your phone number is transferred and ready to be used.

In meantime while port-in process is pending you will get a new phone number that you can use.



Откако ќе се преселите во Германија, ќе ви треба мобилен телефонски број за лесно завршување на секојдневните активности, како и за повици, пристап до интернет и слично. Ова е особено корисно ако не го знаете добро германскиот јазик, бидејќи ќе ви треба за многу онлајн преводи.

### Зошто е потребен германски телефонски број

Креирањето на онлајн сметки на многу места бара валиден германски телефонски број.
- Потребен е за отворање на банкарска сметка и онлајн банкарство.
- Малопродажни и доставни услуги.
- Регистрирање на онлајн услугите на градот. (посебно доколку сајтот користи м-тан или друг сервис кој користи м-тан)

### Како да добиете број

Наједноставниот начин е да одите лично во продавница и да го понесете вашиот пасош. Ако немате банкарска сметка која поддржува SEPA трансфери, тогаш дефинитивно би било полесно да добиете припејд СИМ картичка за почеток. 

**Важно**: Македонските сметки не подржуваат SEPA трансфери (сѐуште) но постои опција кај некои од операторите да активирате месечна претплата и директно да ви наплаќа од банкарска картицата.

Вашата картичка ќе биде веднаш достапна и подготвена за користење. За краток период на употреба - број од Lyca mobile може да биде најдобра опција кога ги споредувате понудата и цената.

Најдобриот начин да го изберете она што најмногу ви одговара и да добиете добра вредност за вашите пари е да го користите [Check24](https://www.awin1.com/awclick.php?gid=332974&mid=9364&awinaffid=1664867&linkid=2126275&clickref=), направете пребарување „Mobilfunk“. Можете да споредите различни провајдери на мрежи, цени, услови и слично.

### Пренос на број

Лесно е да го пренесете вашиот телефонски број од еден оператор на друг, но мора да биде германски телефонски број. Ова ќе ви овозможи да го користите истиот број и само да го промените операторот, но мора да знаете дека ќе треба да почекате 1 до 2 недели по барањето за пренос, пред вашиот телефонски број да биде пренесен и подготвен за користење.

Во меѓувреме, додека процесот на пренос е во тек, ќе добиете нов телефонски број кој можете да го користите.

Купување на германска сим картичка / тел. број

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Get a German phone number

Have you found a freelance job already and want to make sure that everything is in accordance with the regulations in Germany? Then you need to pay attention to the following things:  

**Registering as a Freelancer (Freiberufler) or Sole Proprietor (Gewerbetreibender)**  
The first step is determining whether your work falls under **freelance professions (Freie Berufe)** or **trade-based self-employment (Gewerbe)**.  
   - **Freelancers** (e.g., writers, consultants, graphic designers, doctors, and artists) only need to register with the tax office (Finanzamt).  
   - **Sole proprietors** engaged in commercial activities (e.g., e-commerce, retail, or tradespeople) must also register with the trade office (Gewerbeamt) and may need to pay trade tax (Gewerbesteuer).  

**Getting a Tax Number (Steuernummer)**  
As a freelancer, you must register with the Finanzamt by submitting the **tax registration form (Fragebogen zur steuerlichen Erfassung)** online via **ELSTER**. This will get you a tax number, which is essential for invoicing clients.  
Pay attention to the confirmation letter from Finanzamt which might contain details like do you have to register a company (Gewerbe).

**Understanding VAT (Umsatzsteuer/MwSt.)**  
Depending on your earnings, you might need to charge and pay VAT (Mehrwertsteuer, commonly 19% or 7%). However, if your turnover is below **€22,000 in the first year and €50,000 in subsequent years**, you can opt for the **small business regulation (Kleinunternehmerregelung)** and avoid charging VAT. 

**Health Insurance**  
In Germany, health insurance is mandatory. As a freelancer, you can choose between:  
   - **Public health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung)**, where contributions depend on your income.  
   - **Private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung)**, which might be cheaper for higher earners but comes with long-term cost considerations.  
 You can find more info about the healt insurace  [here](https://germanyfordummies.de/en/posts/health-insurance)
 

**Pension Contributions (Rentenversicherungspflicht for Some Professions)**  
Some freelancers, like teachers, artists, and caregivers, must contribute to the statutory pension scheme (Deutsche Rentenversicherung). Others can contribute voluntarily but should consider private pension plans.  

**Bookkeeping & Tax Returns**  
Keep track of your income and expenses. Depending on your revenue, you may need to submit:  
   - **Quarterly VAT returns (Umsatzsteuervoranmeldung)** if you charge VAT.  
   - **Annual income tax declaration (Einkommensteuererklärung)** and, if applicable, a **profit & loss statement (Einnahmen-Überschuss-Rechnung - EÜR)**.  

**Invoicing Correctly**  
Your invoices must include specific details like your **name, address, tax number, client’s information, invoice number, date, description of services, net amount, VAT (if applicable), and total amount**.  

**Professional Liability Insurance (Berufshaftpflichtversicherung)**  
While not always required, freelancers offering consulting or creative services should consider professional liability insurance to protect against legal claims.  

Make sure you check the legal insurance part as well [here](https://germanyfordummies.de/en/posts/legal-insurance)

By following these steps, you ensure that your self-employment in Germany is compliant with regulations and runs smoothly. 


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Self-employment in Germany

Germany has very good public infrastructure and commuting through the cities is often easy and simple, but when you need to get outside the city and go to other places, often having a car is a more convenient solution (faster commuting, you don't have long waiting times between trains etc.)

So as a new expat in Germany you have the right to bring your car from your homeland with you in the first six months after your arrival in Germany.

**The rules are**:
- The car must be yours in the past 12 months priror moving to Germany. 
- You must request for car import within the first six months after your first entrance in Germany
- You must translate all documents to German (sometimes English are accepted, but to avoid any misunderstanding and not spending time, it is always better to have them translated to German). Required documents are Vehicle log/book, car insurance.
- You must not sell your car for the next 24 months after the import.

In between the process you will need to get a clarification form Zoll (customs) that you are free from import tax, you will then need to go to do a technical inspection of your car (TÜV).

Once you complete the process you will get the new German vehicle documents (part 1 and part 2) which later can be used for getting a german insurance and issuing a new license plates of the car.

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Mobility

Getting your car in Germany

Looking for an apartment in Germany, especially in bigger cities, can be challenging. Here are some important tips and factors to consider.

Current Market Conditions:

**High Demand**: Due to limited new construction, the COVID-19 pandemic, and regional conflicts, Germany has become a popular destination, causing a shortage of available apartments and increasing rents by up to 50% in some cities.

**Key Factors to Consider**:

_Building Age_: Older buildings might have higher maintenance issues.

_Heating Efficiency_: Check the energy rating (A is best, H is worst).

_Proximity_: How close is it to your work, school, or essential facilities like kindergartens, schools, and markets?

_Transport Links_: Prioritize U-Bahn connections, then bus and tram options.

_Building Amenities_: Look for elevators, storage rooms (Keller), bike and stroller spaces.

**Where to Search**:

Start your search on popular websites:

immobilienscout24.de
immowelt.de

**Creating Your Profile**:

_Fill Out Your Profile_: Complete your profile thoroughly as it will be used to apply for apartments.

_Schufa Score_: If you have a Schufa score, include it to improve your chances. If you’re new to Germany, you might not have one yet.

**Viewing Appointments**:

_Schedule Viewings_: Book appointments to see the apartments. The landlord will likely conduct a casual interview to see if you’re a good fit as a tenant.

_Real Estate Agencies_: Consider using agencies to streamline the process. They can show multiple apartments in one day and may offer online viewings.

**Before Signing the Contract**:

_Inspect the Apartment_: Check for damages or non-functional equipment and report these to the landlord to have them documented and fixed.

_Read the Contract Carefully_: Understand what’s included in the rent and what’s not, such as heating and cleaning services. Pay attention to the notice period and any additional rules, like handling mold (a common issue).

**Understanding Rent**:

_Cold Rent vs. Warm Rent_: Cold rent is the base rent, while warm rent includes additional expenses like heating and maintenance. Make sure you understand all the costs included in the warm rent.

Finding the right apartment might take some time and effort, but keeping these tips in mind will help you navigate the process more smoothly. Happy apartment hunting!

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