New in Frankfurt: what you need to know

Unfortunately, we are not living in the movie ‘Up’ and therefore can’t attach a couple thousand helium balloons to the roof of our house and fly it across the sea.  So, if you are considering working in Germany or are new in Frankfurt, the chances are you will need to find a new place to live!

And, whilst it’s true that everyone has different criteria and standards, it is often helpful to hear someone else’s perspective and experiences.

A Snapshot of Frankfurt

First and foremost, Frankfurt is Germany’s financial powerhouse, home to the European Central Bank, the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, and numerous multinational corporations. It’s a city of contrasts: the futuristic skyscrapers of the financial district stand alongside well-preserved historic sites like the Römer and St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral. Also, Frankfurt is renowned for its cultural offerings, from world-class museums to an ever-growing and vibrant culinary scene.

New in Frankfurt, the Pros and Cons

Unquestionably, there are pros and cons to living anywhere in the world, and Frankfurt is no different.  So, let’s begin with a brief overview.  Pros include its size; Frankfurt is surprisingly small, so getting across the city is far quicker and simpler than it is in London, for example.  Next, its status as the major financial hub for Germany means job opportunities, particularly in finance and IT. For the most part, there is an efficient public transportation system and a rich cultural scene with numerous museums and plenty of annual events, including wine festivals, concerts and trade fairs. Finally, Frankfurt’s central location in Europe makes it an excellent base for travel. Cons include a high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing and the very competitive rental market.

Preparing for the Move

Visas and Work Permits

EU citizens can live and work in Germany without a visa. Non-EU citizens, however, need to secure the appropriate visa, such as a work visa or Blue Card for highly skilled professionals. It’s crucial to start this process early, as it can take time to gather the necessary documents and get approval.

Understanding Where to Live

As previously mentioned, Frankfurt’s real estate market can be competitive, especially in popular neighbourhoods.  So, start your search early on platforms like ImmobilienScout24 and decide whether you prefer living in the city or in the “burbs”.

Country folk or city slickers?

Country folk?  Then living in the Taunus is definitely for you!  A few areas to consider would be Bad Soden, Kronberg and Oberursel.

However, if the call of the hills falls on deaf ears and you are more in tune with the hum of the city (which is the direction I leaned), then here are a few of the key neighbourhoods.

Frankfurt is divided into distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character, flavour and feel:

• Innenstadt: The city centre is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
• Sachsenhausen: Known for its historic buildings and apple wine pubs, offering a more traditional feel.
• Bornheim: A lively, bohemian area popular with young professionals and students.
• Nordend: A green, upscale neighbourhood with beautiful parks and a relaxed vibe.
• Bockenheim: Home to many students and academics, thanks to its proximity to the Goethe University campus.

Admittedly, this is not an exhaustive list so head over to neighbourhoods to find out more. Once you have an idea of which area most appeals to you and your family, hit the streets and pound the pavement to get a firsthand account. Next, try the local cafes,restaurants and see what each neighbourhood has to offer.

Housing Tips:

• Start your search on platforms like Immobilienscout24, WG-Gesucht, or local Facebook groups.
• Be prepared with a Schufa (German credit report), proof of income, and personal references.
• Consider a short-term rental while you look.
• You are not guaranteed to get your first-choice property (argh!!)
• Unfurnished literally means no light fittings or kitchen!  Yes, people move with their kitchens!
• You are expected to address people Frau and Herr (just roles off the tongue)
• Finding an apartment with two bathrooms in Westend is like gold dust
• Things are not quite as structured and organised as you may expect (sometimes stereotypes are just that, an overly simplified idea)
• You may need wine most evenings until you find a place

Bureaucratic Essentials when New in Frankfurt

Registration (Anmeldung):
The first thing you need to do after moving to Frankfurt is register your address. This is mandatory and should be done within two weeks of your arrival. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Passport/ID: To verify your identity.
• Rental Agreement: Proof of your new address.
• Registration Form: Available at the Bürgeramt (citizen’s office) or online.

This process provides you with an “Anmeldebestätigung” (registration confirmation), which you’ll need for many administrative processes, such as opening a bank account or signing up for utilities.

Registration Tips:

• CITY REGISTRATION.  Without a doubt one of the easiest ways I’ve found for registration is using the Get In Expat online registration form.  For a small fee, you will fill out the form online.  Next, you print it off along with a checklist of all documents you are required to take with you to the appointment.
• KINDERGELD.  Kindergeld is a child allowance which is available to all residents in Germany.  It is independent of your income.  Once again, we have found the Get In Expat KINDERGELD online registration form to be the easiest way to apply

Health Insurance

It is important to note that health insurance is compulsory in Germany. Also, you must choose between public (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) and private (private Krankenversicherung) health insurance.

Health Insurance Tips:

• A brief overview and explanation of German Health Insurance

Cultural Integration: Navigating German Customs

Adjusting to life in Frankfurt involves getting to grips with some local customs and etiquette:

• Language: While English is widely spoken, learning German will greatly enhance your experience. Consider taking language courses at local Volkshochschule (community colleges) or a language school.
• Dining Out: Tipping is common but modest (about 5-10%). Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to share a table at busy times – it’s normal in Germany!
• Recycling: Germany is serious about recycling. Make sure to separate your waste correctly according to local guidelines.

Explore the City and Surrounding Area

Final Moving Tips when New in Frankfurt

1. Definitely take into consideration both kid’s school and work locations when choosing which Frankfurt neighbourhood to settle in
2. Find a good relocation agent! Ours was fantastic for the fundamentals when we couldn’t speak the language because all the documentation was in German
3. Get an idea of the areas before you start looking.  Narrowing that down first makes your search much easier.  See our neighbourhood breakdown below
4. Remember, each area in Frankfurt has its own flavour and feel.  So definitely hit the pavement and ‘taste the coffee’
5. Popular with expats are Westend, Nordend and Bornheim. You can walk most places in the city (an absolute bonus on the nights out where you’ve had a drink or ten)
6. If you set on Westend, Nordend etc and have a car, check the parking situation with your landlord or agent.  Parking is a nightmare without an allocated space
7. Also, be aware popular expat areas such as Westend and Nordend are very much on the high end in terms of rental cost.
8. To avoid turning 10-minute journeys into 3 hours (trust me, I know!), a basic understanding of the transport system is helpful.

In conclusion, moving to Frankfurt is an exciting opportunity, offering a blend of rich history, cultural diversity, and modern urban living. And with a little planning and an open mind, you can make the most of your new life in this vibrant city. Willkommen in Frankfurt!