My Six Years Experience in Germany: Was It Worth It?

Summary

The speaker shares their positive experiences living in Germany, highlighting free education as a significant advantage. They discuss the manageable cost of living, including tuition fees and the block account system that ensures funds are returned monthly. The video also touches on Germany's supportive immigration policies, especially during crises, and the ease of obtaining permanent residency. The speaker emphasizes the importance of learning German for integration and the benefits of German citizenship, such as a powerful passport that facilitates travel. They conclude by advising newcomers to step out of their comfort zones, learn the language, and embrace the numerous benefits Germany offers.

Takeaways

• 📚 The speaker's experience in Germany has been very positive, starting with education and leading to job opportunities.
• 💼 Free education in Germany is highlighted as a significant advantage, especially when compared to tuition fees in countries like the UK, the US, and Australia.
• 💰 The concept of 'Sperrkonto' or blocked account is explained, where money is deposited and returned monthly, ensuring no financial burden on students.
• 🏆 Germany's treatment of immigrants, especially during crises like the Ukraine war and COVID-19, is praised for its inclusivity and support.
• 🏦 The process for obtaining permanent residency in Germany is described as easy, with job stability leading to the Blue Card and eventual citizenship.
• 🌍 The importance of learning the German language for integration and to access the benefits of living in Germany is emphasized.
• 🛂 The ease of obtaining citizenship in Germany is a notable point, with a clear path from student visa to permanent residency.
• ✈️ Germany's citizenship offers the benefit of a strong passport, facilitating travel without the need for visas for many countries.
• 🏙️ The video suggests that for those willing to learn the language and integrate, Germany offers a high quality of life and opportunities.
• 🔄 The speaker advises that moving to a new country like Germany requires stepping out of one's comfort zone, learning the language, and embracing the culture.

Q & A

What is the common question the speaker often receives about Germany?

The common question is whether coming to Germany is worth it and if there are any significant benefits to living and studying there.

Why does the speaker advise caution when seeking advice about Germany?

The speaker advises caution because many people might offer unsolicited and incorrect advice. It's important to ask follow-up questions to understand why something is considered good or bad.

What has been the speaker's personal experience in Germany?

The speaker's experience in Germany has been very positive. They came to study, found a job, obtained permanent residency (PR), and have now applied for German citizenship.

What does the speaker consider the most important advantage of living in Germany?

The speaker considers Germany’s free education system to be the most important advantage. They emphasize that in many other countries like the UK, US, and Australia, tuition fees are a significant burden.

How does the speaker address concerns about the blocked account requirement for international students in Germany?

The speaker explains that the blocked account is essentially the student’s own money, reserved to ensure they can cover their living expenses. It is not a fee taken by the German government.

How did Germany support immigrants and students during the COVID-19 crisis?

During the COVID-19 crisis, Germany provided additional subsidies to students, including financial aid and grocery vouchers in some states, ensuring that students were supported during difficult times.

What are the options for obtaining permanent residency (PR) in Germany?

There are two main options for obtaining PR in Germany: if you have a Blue Card and pass the B1 German language test, you can apply in 21 months. Without meeting the salary threshold for a Blue Card, you can apply after two years of working with a regular work permit.

Why does the speaker value obtaining German citizenship?

The speaker values German citizenship because of the ease of international travel with a strong passport. Unlike their German colleagues, they currently need visas for work trips, which complicates their travel plans.

What recent law changes have helped the speaker apply for German citizenship?

A recent German law allows those who have lived in Germany for five years, paid taxes, and passed the B1 German language test to apply for citizenship. The speaker met these requirements and recently applied.

What advice does the speaker give to those considering moving to Germany?

The speaker advises focusing on learning the German language and being prepared to step out of one’s comfort zone. They emphasize the importance of integrating into German society and accepting cultural differences for an easier life in Germany.