The Local Germany

A social media post by far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) co-leader Alice Weidel has accused Berlin of giving out German passports in a "clearance sale" without making applicants go through interviews. We put the claim under a microscope. thelocal.de/20241114/fact-…

Whether you've just moved to Germany or have been settled here for years, knowing where to turn to for support is essential. Here are the organisations that can help you navigate the twists and turns of life in Germany. thelocal.de/20241115/the-o…

After being against a reform of Germany's controversial 'debt brake' for years, conservative politicians now say they are open to changing it. Are we about to see it changed - and why does it matter? thelocal.de/20241115/expla…

A group of cross-party German MPs have launched a bid to legalise abortion in the first trimester before snap elections. It may be the last chance for years to change the law, a doctor and pro-choice campaigner tells The Local. thelocal.de/20241115/last-…

Although the new law allowing dual citizenship for everyone only came into effect in June, a fortunate few new German citizens may be able to vote in the country's upcoming early elections. thelocal.de/20241114/expla…

Germany is known around the world for being a nation of skilled English speakers - but does it live up to its reputation? A new survey released this week has assessed just how good Germans are at the lingua franca. thelocal.de/20241113/are-g…

Here's how the path to German elections is shaping up so far: December 16th: Scholz to hold vote of confidence in Bundestag December 27th: German President expected to dissolve parliament February 23rd 2025: Germans vote in snap elections thelocal.de/20241113/lates…

Any effort to combat anti-Semitism should be uncontroversial. But a resolution passed in Germany is under fire by many - including from the Jewish community - who say it will limit freedom of expression. @derJamesJackson analyses what's going on. thelocal.de/20241113/why-g…

Germany is heading towards snap elections after the coalition breakup. What does this mean for projects in progress including next year's tax plans and pension reform? thelocal.de/20241113/taxes…

If the presidential election has you thinking of leaving the US – or if you want to move to Germany for any other reason – there are some hurdles to overcome. Here's a look at the various routes available to US citizens. thelocal.de/20241112/check…

As its gets darker and colder in Germany, many people are looking forward to the festive season. We look at when Christmas markets will start to welcome visitors. thelocal.de/20241113/when-…

After the breakdown of the coalition last week, Germany is getting ready for snap elections in February. We round up key points on what to expect and who might be next chancellor. thelocal.de/20241113/lates…

How to watch shooting stars in Germany this November dlvr.it/TG7ZHC

As we head deep into the autumn/winter season many people are wondering what the rules are around heating your home in Germany. Here's what you need to know. thelocal.de/20241001/when-…

Germany is debating when a vote of confidence of the chancellor will be held, which would lead to snap elections. But with strict rules to follow, holidays and talk of paper shortages, are January elections even possible? thelocal.de/20241111/is-it…

LISTED: The airlines adding direct flights to and from Germany in 2025 dlvr.it/TG7Swv

EU in new push to make European train travel easier with single ticket plan dlvr.it/TG6fWL

Can you get your pension contributions back if you leave Germany? dlvr.it/TG6dYk

Germany's Scholz ready for vote of confidence 'before Christmas' dlvr.it/TG6SVV

Trump and Scholz agree to work towards 'return to peace in Europe' dlvr.it/TG6Rh7