Zeitwohnen Update: January 2026
Berlin thrives on mobility. When international professionals, scientists, students, or people in exceptional personal circumstances need an apartment at short notice, the availability of flexible furnished accommodation is often the deciding factor for our city. This is exactly where Zeitwohnen (long-term flexible housing) comes in, which in practice is clearly geared towards residential use for […]
Expert Opinion Confirms: Temporary Housing in Berlin is Legally Protected
Table of Contents The current political debate surrounding the proposed Housing Security Act (Wohnraumsicherungsgesetz) and planned restrictions in social preservation areas (Milieuschutz) has left many Berlin landlords feeling uncertain. At the heart of the matter are two critical questions: Does switching from long-term to mid-term rental constitute a “change of use” requiring a permit? Is […]
German Terms Every Tenant Should Know
Table of Contents Moving into a German rental without understanding the vocabulary is like signing a contract you can’t read. This guide lists the key German terms you’ll see in listings, contracts, emails from landlords, and at city offices. Use it to decode documents, ask the right questions, and avoid costly misunderstandings. How to use […]
What to Do Before Moving Out to Protect Your Deposit (Kaution)
Table of Contents Practical steps for tenants in Germany to secure a smooth handover and get the full deposit back Why this guide? If you’re preparing to move out of a rental in Germany, you want your Kaution back in full and without arguments. The best way to make that happen is to know what […]
How to Avoid Rental Scams in Germany
Table of Contents Rental scams in Germany are a real risk, especially if you’re new to the country, don’t speak German yet, and need a place fast. High demand in cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg or Frankfurt makes it easier for fraudsters to exploit stressed-out renters, including expats, students and digital nomads. This guide explains […]
How to Verify a Rental Listing Is Legitimate in Germany
Table of Contents Finding a flat in Germany can be stressful, especially in cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg or Frankfurt. Demand is high, competition is intense, and scammers know it. Fake listings promise beautiful, cheap apartments and then disappear with your deposit. Consumer centres and the European Consumer Centre regularly warn about rental fraud based […]
Is Germany Expat-Friendly? A 2026 Deep Dive for Future Residents
Table of Contents Germany as an Immigration Country Germany has become one of the world’s key destinations for international workers, students and families. According to the 2023 microcensus, about 21.2 million people in Germany have an “immigration history”, around a quarter of the total population. Eurostat estimates that 12.1 million non‑nationals were living in Germany […]
Is It Easy for a British Citizen to Move to Germany?
Table of Contents If you want to move from the UK to Germany in 2026, the process is no longer based on free movement. Living in Germany after Brexit means you must follow German rules for third‑country nationals: pick a lawful purpose of stay, apply for the right residence title, and complete practical steps like […]
International Tenants in Germany: Legal Rental Tips for Non‑EU Citizens
Table of Contents Who this guide is for You are moving to Germany from outside the EU, you need a mid‑ to long‑term place to live, and you want to avoid legal traps. This guide explains how German rental law works in plain English, what to check before you sign, which rights you have under […]
