There are some notable cultural differences between people living in Germany and those living in the Netherlands. In general, Germans can be perceived as more formal and reserved, while the Dutch are known to be more open and relaxed.

In the Netherlands, a culture of equality and respect is encouraged, and people tend to be direct and sincere in their communications. In addition, people in the Netherlands have a practical approach and strive to maintain a balance between their professional and personal lives. The Dutch are said to be a friendly, open and tolerant people. They value individual freedom and cultural diversity, and are known for their dry, down-to-earth sense of humour.

In general, Germans are considered formal and reserved compared to other European countries. They value punctuality and responsibility, and their work culture is serious and results-oriented. However, they can also be warm and friendly with close friends and family. In addition, people in Germany have a great appreciation for nature and culture, and it is common to find a wide variety of parks and green spaces throughout the country.

However, it is important to keep in mind that these are only general stereotypes and that each person is unique and has his or her own personalities and characteristics.

For both countries, it must be taken into account that living in the capital or a big city is not the same as living in small towns. But the cost of living in Germany can be somewhat higher than in the Netherlands.

Taxes are somewhat higher in Berlin than in the Netherlands, although the health and social security system is comprehensive and well developed. Housing can be more expensive in Germany, especially in the capital Berlin, while it is more affordable in Amsterdam. However, German salaries may be a bit higher, which balances things out, right?

The cost of everyday expenses, such as food, transport or leisure, is very similar in both countries. Have you heard of the Big Mac Index? It compares the cost of living and purchasing power in different countries using the famous McDonald's hamburger as a benchmark. Curiously, in a Berlin vs Amsterdam fight, if we put this succulent burger in the ring, the result is that it would cost €10 in the former and €6 in the latter. But apart from the Big Mac, life tends to be a little more expensive in Germany.

The main difference between Dutch life and German life is in the rhythm. No doubt. In the Netherlands there is a certain attitude of "living slowly" and having a more relaxed pace. In the workplace nobody is in a hurry, people are quiet and tend to spend a lot of time talking. In Germany, meanwhile, everything is timed. Punctuality will be your best calling card in every aspect of your life, whether you're going to work or meeting a friend for coffee. If you want сompare the difference with Germany to Netherlands - you can do this on our website. In other aspects of lifestyle there are not so many differences. Both countries enjoy outdoor recreation in their beautiful natural parks.

For an EU citizen moving Netherlands to Germany, there are not many difficulties. It is a relatively straightforward standardised process due to the freedom of movement and residence within the European Union. As a general rule, you are allowed to stay for 90 days. After that, registration as a resident is required. However, even if you do not need a visa, there may be other obstacles to consider, such as finding a place to live and getting a job.

And although Dutch and German come from a common Germanic root, they are different languages. And you may need to learn German to be able to communicate effectively at work and in everyday life. It is also important to familiarise yourself with local laws and regulations, including tax and insurance regulations.

In short, moving to Germany as a European citizen is not a particularly difficult process, but it does require some preparation and planning to be successful.

Although most of these points have already been developed in the article, how about a short checklist to clarify your ideas?

Pros:

1. Job opportunities: Germany is one of the strongest economies in Europe and offers numerous employment opportunities in a wide variety of industries.
2. Social security: Germany has a strong social security system that provides protection for its citizens in the event of illness, unemployment and retirement.
3. Quality of life: Germany has a vibrant city life, but also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling.
4. Education: Germany has a high quality education system, with a wide range of universities and postgraduate programmes available.
5. Location: Germany is in the heart of Europe, making it an ideal starting point for exploring other European countries. It also has an extensive public transport network and flight connections to other destinations.

Cons:

1. Language: Although most Germans speak English, it may be necessary to learn German in order to communicate effectively at work and in everyday life.
2. Cost of living: The cost of living in Germany is generally higher than in the Netherlands, especially in large cities such as Berlin and Frankfurt.
3. Bureaucracy: Germany is known for its efficiency and punctuality, but can also be perceived as a bureaucratic and regulated society.
4. Cultural difference: German culture can be perceived as less open and more traditional compared to Dutch culture, which is known for being liberal and tolerant.
5. Climate: The climate in Germany can be colder and harsher than in the Netherlands, especially in the winter. This can be an important factor to consider for those who prefer a milder climate.

German health insurance can be either public or private. The main difference comes in the price, as in the first case it will be proportional to your salary and in the second case you pay as much as you want, depending on the private health insurance company you choose. They also differ in the coverage they offer, as private health insurance usually has a broader portfolio of services and is more adapted to the specific needs of the client.

In any case, if your salary is less than €64,000 per year or €5,400 per month (i.e. most people) you will not have to worry about making a decision. You will have to pay compulsory public insurance.

It is established by law that the monthly contribution for your health insurance is 14.6% of your gross monthly salary by the year 2022. In other words, this is a proportional contribution to prevent abuses and to ensure that all workers can afford it. If you are an employee, the payment is divided equally between you and your employer. Half will be paid by the employer and half from your salary. 

What if you are self-employed? You will have to pay the full contribution. However, in this case there are some special features: you are entitled to a reduced contribution of 14%, but you are not entitled to sickness benefit or maternity allowance for this amount.

Moving to Germany to study can be a great opportunity for students seeking a high quality education as well as a unique, exciting and rewarding cultural experience.

The country is home to some of the best universities in the world and is known for its high quality education system. Studying in Germany also offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture and learn German, a language that is widely spoken and in demand in many sectors.

The cost of living in Germany can be relatively affordable, especially compared to other European countries. Students can find affordable accommodation options, such as student residences or shared flats, and the country has a strong public transport system that makes it easy to get around. In addition, many universities offer a variety of support services to help international students adjust to their new environment, such as language courses and cultural activities.

In conclusion, moving to Germany to study can be a great opportunity for students seeking a world-class education and a unique cultural experience. With an affordable cost of living, a strong public transport system and support services for international students, Germany is an excellent destination for those looking to further their education.

First thing to know is that: The work culture is serious and efficient, and employees are expected to be responsible and punctual. But moving to Germany for work can offer many benefits, including access to a strong job market and a high standard of living. The country is a hub for many industries, including technology, automotive, and engineering, offering many job opportunities for skilled workers. In addition, the German economy is stable and strong, with a low unemployment rate and competitive salaries.

One advantage of working in Germany is its excellent work-life balance, with many companies offering flexible work arrangements and generous vacation time. The country is also known for its high-quality healthcare system and efficient public transportation, making it a great place to live and work.

For international workers, the process of moving to Germany and finding a job can be challenging, as the job market is competitive, and the language barrier can be a hurdle. However, many companies offer language support and there are a variety of resources available to help jobseekers navigate the process.

In conclusion, moving to Germany for work can be a great opportunity for those seeking a stable and rewarding career in a country with a high standard of living and excellent work-life balance. With its strong job market and competitive salaries, Germany is an attractive destination for international workers.

In general terms, taxes in Germany and the Netherlands are similar, but with some significant differences. In Germany, the income tax rate is higher than in the Netherlands, with a top rate of 45% for high incomes. However, Germans have a more comprehensive social insurance system that includes health insurance, pensions and unemployment, which can reduce the overall cost of living.

In the Netherlands, the income tax rate is lower than in Germany, with a top rate of 49.5% for high incomes. However, the Dutch pay more indirect taxes, such as VAT and consumption taxes.

In addition, in Germany employees are required to pay contributions to a social insurance system, while in the Netherlands employers and employees share the cost of social insurance.

In summary, the total cost of taxation in Germany and the Netherlands varies depending on the individual situation and income structure, but in general, both countries have a similar tax burden and comprehensive and efficient social insurance systems.

The quality of life in Germany is generally considered to be high. Germany is known for its strong economy, excellent infrastructure, and high standard of living. Healthcare and education are both highly developed and widely accessible, and the country has a comprehensive social security system that provides support to those in need.

In terms of cultural and recreational activities, Germany has a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and concert halls, as well as many parks and green spaces. The country is also home to many internationally renowned festivals and events, such as Oktoberfest and the Berlin Film Festival.

In terms of safety, Germany is generally considered to be a safe country, with low levels of crime and a strong police presence. Additionally, the country has a modern and efficient transportation system, making it easy to travel within the country and to other parts of Europe.

In conclusion, the quality of life in Germany is high, with a strong economy, excellent infrastructure, and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. Additionally, the country is known for its high standards of healthcare and education, as well as its safe and efficient transportation system.

Whether you moving from the Netherlands to Germany or decide to stay in the land of tulips, it will be a wise decision. Both countries give you the opportunity to live in the centre of Europe, well connected to the rest of the continent. They are places where big cities coexist in harmony with natural landscapes of incomparable beauty. There are many job opportunities in most sectors with good salaries and good working hours that will allow you to enjoy life.  

If you are a retired person from the Netherlands moving to Germany, the process will be much the same as in your home country, as the Netherlands is a member of the European Union (EU). As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in any EU country, including Germany, without a visa. Here are the general steps to follow:

Register your address: When you arrive in Germany, you must register your address with the local authorities within two weeks.

Take out health insurance: German law requires all residents to have health insurance. If you already have Dutch health insurance, it will probably also be recognised in Germany.

Inform your pension provider: If you receive a Dutch pension, you must inform your pension provider that you are moving to Germany. You may have to take certain steps to ensure that your pension continues to be paid.

Registering with social insurance: If you are going to live in Germany for a longer period of time, you may be entitled to certain social insurance benefits, such as health insurance. For more information, contact your local authorities.

In addition to everything you have already read, here are a few extra tips for when you start your new life in Germany: 

- No kissing or overly affectionate greetings. In Germany it is not customary to introduce yourself with two kisses, hugs or pats on the back. They like to keep their distance, so they usually opt for a handshake.

- Get used to tipping. It is considered totally disrespectful not to leave 10% of the bill after eating in a restaurant or 7% of the fare after taking a taxi.

- Be aware of the green, yellow and blue bin: Germans are fully ingrained in the recycling culture and are very concerned about cleanliness and odours.

- Seriousness in business: Being well-dressed, not being polite and being clear are key if you want to succeed in any job in Germany and punctuality is key!

- Keep your voice down. One of the most surprising things about Germany is how quiet it is. Even in big cities like Berlin or Frankfurt, you will notice the calm and quiet atmosphere. And an immediate consequence of this is that there is no loud talking - and certainly no shouting.

- And last but not least, take your shoes off on the way in! One thing all Germans do is to take off their shoes as soon as they arrive at their home. They will do it when they arrive at your home and will expect you to do the same when you arrive at theirs.

Of course it is! Whether you plan to move to Germany to study, to work or to retire, Germany is a good idea.

We have already compared the most important aspects of a life in the Netherlands vs Germany, their pros and cons… Are you decided? It will be a great adventure!