Last updated: 21 October 2025
Germany is a popular and common expat destination at the heart of Europe due to its economic success and wealth as well as the active community. Whether you are there to work or live closer to your family and friends, Germany is a great country to live in. However, moving internationally to Germany from Australia needs to be carefully planned, such as housing and choosing a company to help relocate overseas. This guide will help you get ready to relocate to Germany from Australia and includes information such as preparing your visas and other documentation, residency, transportation, work, education and healthcare and how Palmers Relocations can help you move internationally.
Preparing your Visa and other Official Documentations
Australian citizens can visit Germany visa-free, but there are standard immigration rules to follow upon arrival. If you’re planning a move to Germany from Australia, it’s crucial to be aware of the Schengen Zone’s 90/180 Day Rule. This rule applies to all Schengen Area visitors, including Australians. To avoid overstaying and facing issues, keep track of your stay (use the Schengen Visa Calculator by VisaGuide.World) and apply for a different visa if needed for longer stays.
If your goal is to stay in Germany beyond the 90-day limit, you have up to three months from your arrival to apply for a residence permit. It is also recommended to prepare other official documentation prior to your travel to Germany such as birth certificates, medical records, work permit, passport (valid for at least six months from travel date), marriage license/certificate, school records and insurance policies. If you intend to live in Germany for more than three months, you need to enrol and register at your local ‘Einwohnermeldeamt’, also known as a registration office.
Depending on where you are in Germany, the registration office in your local area may also be called ‘Bürgeramt’, ‘Bürgerbüro’ or ‘Kreisverwaltungsreferat’. You will also be required to provide several official documentation mentioned previously, hence you should keep duplicate copies handy.
Residency
Heidelberg, Germany
Many people look for a suitable apartment or house after moving to Germany. So, if that is what you prefer, there are many hotels and holiday house rentals for you to stay in until you find the right home. There are many real estate agents and companies that will help you find a new home but, beware of their expensive fees. Renting in Germany for a two-bedroom apartment, for instance, is as low as less than 700 Australian Dollars a month. Still, the price will vary depending on the apartment size and the distance to the centre of the city. Most landlords will request a lot of paperwork such as proof that you can afford to pay the property and some may ask for you to pay three months of rent in advance to use as a security deposit. If you do decide to rent out, check your rental agreement to see if some of your utilities such as heat or hot water, is included in the rent. If not, many providers can help assist in connecting your home to a supply.
Transportation
The public transport in Germany is considered to be one of the best. It is efficient and quick for travelling to andfrom work, making it more cheaper than driving. If you plan on using the train frequently, book your tickets in advance online to save money as well as investing in a Bahn card which is a discount prescription program. If you wish to use a car as a mode of transport and get your driver’s license, you must be at least 18 years of age (without the presence of a legal guardian). If you plan on staying in Germany for less than 12 months, you can use your Australian driver’s licence for up to six months and then renew it for another six months. But, if you are staying for more than 12 months, you need to apply for a German driver’s license and sit a theory and practical driving test.
Work, Education and Healthcare
If you are moving to Germany and plan to find work there, there are branches of the Bundesagentur für Arbeit, also known as the Federal Employment Agency and their purpose is to help people find jobs while charging no fee at all. In regards to the schools in Germany, children are forbidden to be homeschooled as there is compulsory education attendance. The age fo
r beginning primary school starts at six, and once a student completes their 12th or 13th grade (in some states in Germany), they will receive an Abitur certificate with the entitlement to study at a university. There are many public schools in Germany, and the majority have a high level of education and is free of charge while nine per cent of students in Germany study at a private school that charges fees. If your child is under the age of six, they can be enrolled in a daycare facility. Finally, healthcare in Germany is very well financially supported with high efficiency with mandatory health insurance. If you are working, your insurance is automatically paid from your income. Your health insurance is paid from half of your income, and your employer pays the other half. The state pays for the insurance if you are claiming benefits and are unemployed. Regardless of the type purpose of your move to Germany (studying, working, visiting), it is important to be covered. Germany-visa.org has listed different types of health insurance and options available in Germany.
Nuremberg, Germany
Relocating your Belonging to Germany
Moving your household goods internationally is often one of the most complex parts of an overseas relocation — especially when moving from Australia to Europe. Shipping times, customs clearance, and documentation requirements can vary depending on your final destination in Germany, so it’s important to plan ahead.
At Palmers Relocations, we specialise in end-to-end international moving services designed to make your relocation as seamless as possible. Here’s what to consider when preparing your belongings for Germany:
1. Timing and Planning Your Move
Contact your relocation specialist early — ideally three to four months before your planned move date. This allows enough time for:
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A pre-move survey to assess the volume of your shipment and determine the most efficient shipping method (sole-use or shared container).
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Preparing documentation required for customs clearance, including your detailed packing inventory, copy of your passport, and residence registration once in Germany.
2. Shipping Options
Palmers offers both sea freight and air freight options:
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Sea freight is ideal for larger household moves and is the most cost-effective method. Transit times from Australia to Germany typically range between 8–12 weeks.
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Air freight is faster (1–3 weeks) and better suited for essential items or smaller shipments.
Your relocation consultant will help determine which method best suits your needs and budget.
3. Customs and Duties
If you’re relocating your permanent residence to Germany, you may qualify for duty-free import of your used household goods and personal effects. To be eligible:
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Items must be owned and used for at least six months prior to shipment.
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Import should occur within 12 months of your relocation.
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Items must be for continued personal use.
New or unused items, or shipments that do not meet these criteria, may attract import duties or VAT. Vehicles must be registered in your name prior to import to be eligible under personal property relief rules. Customs authorities may revoke exemptions or impose duties if conditions are breached, such as selling imported goods shortly after arrival.
Palmers’ international documentation team can assist you in preparing the required customs forms, residency proof, and packing declarations to ensure a smooth clearance process.
4. Packing and Protection
Our trained moving specialists use high-grade packing materials to protect fragile or high-value items throughout transport. This includes custom crating for art, antiques, or delicate electronics, and secure wrapping for furniture and glassware. We also offer unpacking services and debris removal upon delivery, so your new home in Germany is move-in ready.
5. Storage Options
If your home in Germany isn’t ready yet, or you plan to travel before settling in, Palmers offers short- and long-term storage in secure, climate-controlled facilities in both Australia and partner depots across Europe.
6. Peace of Mind with Palmers Protect+
We recommend comprehensive marine transit extended warranty for all international moves. Our team can guide you through coverage options and help you select the right plan for your shipment and peace of mind.
Moving to Germany doesn’t have to be complicated. With more than 40 years of experience helping Australians relocate across the globe, Palmers Relocations ensures every step of your move — from the initial consultation to delivery in Germany — is handled with care, precision, and professionalism.
Ready to start planning your international move? Request your free, no-obligation quote today and let our relocation experts help you make the transition smooth and stress-free.