Berlin might be closer than you think
If you are considering your next career move, Berlin is more possible than many people realize. With the right sponsor and role fit, relocating on a work visa is often straightforward, especially via the EU Blue Card route. We currently have three Berlin roles that offer visa sponsorship and relocation support. If you are curious, head to the bottom of the page for the details.
Why Berlin for international talent
Lower day-to-day costs than many major hubs and strong quality of life. For example, Berlin’s overall cost of living plus rent compares favorably with most major US Cities as well as London. Use Numbeo to compare cost of living expenses.
Simple, all-network public transport with one monthly ticket used across Germany. The current nationwide “Deutschlandticket” costs €58 per month.
A deep tech and design community, English-friendly workplaces, and easy access to the rest of Europe.
Visas and work authorization in brief
Most international candidates relocate on one of these pathways:
EU Blue Card for qualified professionals. 2025 salary thresholds are €48,300 for general occupations and €43,759.80 for shortage occupations or new graduates. In many cases, the employment agency approval is handled during the visa process.
Skilled worker routes under Germany’s reformed Skilled Immigration Act, which broaden eligibility and streamline timelines.
Find out more: Make It In Germany
Good Maven can guide you and your future employer on documentation, timing, and practicalities.
Cost of living, taxes, and salary
Typical rent for a one-bedroom in many districts sits roughly between €800 and €1,500 per month, with wide variation by neighborhood and building.
Transport is simple to budget with the Deutschlandticket at €58 per month.
Taxes and social contributions are pay-as-you-earn. When you see a Berlin offer, it is usually quoted as gross annual before taxes and deductions. You can estimate your take-home using a calculator, then compare purchasing power with cost-of-living tools.
Useful tools
Net pay estimator: Brutto-Netto Rechner
Cost comparison: Numbeo or Expatistan for city-to-city checks.
Housing: how to find a place faster
Berlin’s rental market is competitive, so start early and gather documents in advance. Most landlords request up to three months’ rent as deposit, plus ID and a work contract. Good shortlists for newcomers include Wunderflats, WG-Gesucht, and Immobilienscout24. Plan for temporary housing if needed while you search.
Legal basics to get set up
Register your address (Anmeldung) within 14 days of moving in. This triggers your Tax ID, which you will need for payroll and banking. Book an appointment with your local Bürgeramt and take the required documents.
Find out more here: Berlin.de
If you are arriving on a work visa, follow your residence permit instructions and book the immigration office appointment promptly after arrival.
Health insurance and care
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Most employees join statutory health insurance and some opt for private insurance depending on eligibility and preference. Your employer and insurer will support enrolment during onboarding.
Daily life tips that make week one easier
Berlin is bike-friendly and English-friendly. A little German goes a long way in daily errands.
Cashless is common, but some small businesses still prefer cash.
Many grocery stores are closed on Sundays, so plan ahead.
Learn German locally
The Volkshochschule (VHS) offers affordable German courses across Berlin districts, with English guidance on placement and registration.
Online courses like Preply and apps like DuoLingo can help you get started ahead of time!
Step-by-step: your first month checklist
Accept offer and confirm sponsorship path with your employer.
Collect visa documents and book your appointment. If Blue Card eligible, check the correct salary band.
Secure temporary housing and plan viewings for long-term options.
Arrive, pick up your SIM, open a bank account, and start work.
Register your address within 14 days and apply for your residence permit as instructed.
Enrol in health insurance and, if you like, a German course.
Set up monthly transport with the Deutschlandticket.
Resources we recommend
Make it in Germany official portal for work and residence, including Blue Card and Skilled Immigration Act guidance. Make It In Germany
Berlin Service Portal for Anmeldung and local admin. Berlin.de
AP News explainer on the Deutschlandticket price and how the pass works nationwide. AP News
Numbeo and Expatistan for up-to-date cost comparisons as you plan budgets. Numbeo
VHS Berlin for accessible German language courses and integration classes. Berlin.de
Ready to explore roles that sponsor?
We currently have three Berlin opportunities that sponsor visas and provide relocation support. If you would like a confidential intro, contact us. We will share job details, help you evaluate compensation, and map a relocation plan that fits your life. Meanwhile, learn more about these jobs at the links below.
