The cost of settling in Germany is a factor many Vietnamese need to calculate carefully before moving. The cost of settling in Germany includes many items, from preparation to stabilization. This article lists the cost categories.
What cost categories make up the cost of settling in Germany
The cost of settling in Germany includes these main categories: application preparation fees (ZAB credential assessment at around 200 EUR, notarized translation, consular legalization, language courses and exams), visa fees (around 75-100 EUR), and a Sperrkonto blocked account for Chancenkarte/Ausbildung (per the current BAföG rate).
After arriving in Germany: initial housing costs (a deposit of 2-3 months’ rent), Anmeldung registration (free or low cost), first month’s health insurance, and basic household items. The total initial costs can range from a few thousand to over 10,000 EUR, depending on the pathway and city.
Monthly cost of living
The cost of living in Germany varies greatly between cities. Large cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg have high rents (800-1,500 EUR/month for a one-room apartment). Berlin is more moderate. Medium-sized cities like Leipzig, Dresden, and Hannover are much more affordable.
Food, transportation, and living costs in Germany are moderate on average. A restaurant meal costs 10-15 EUR, a monthly public transit pass costs 50-80 EUR, and home-cooked meals cost 200-400 EUR/month. Total personal living costs typically run 1,200-2,500 EUR/month depending on the city and lifestyle.
Budgeting notes
Those moving under the EU Blue Card or standard employment pathways earn a salary from day one, so their financial pressure is lighter. Those moving under the Chancenkarte need to budget for living at least 6-12 months without income, since the job search can take a long time.
Those going through Ausbildung receive a training salary (620-1,300 EUR/month) sufficient for basic living costs, but should also account for the cost of traveling to Germany and the initial Sperrkonto deposit. You should check the current cost levels on Make it in Germany and set a realistic budget.
You should refer to Make it in Germany and thong tin Chancenkarte chinh thuc to check current conditions.
Summary
The cost of settling in Germany includes: application preparation (ZAB 200 EUR, translation, language courses), visa 75-100 EUR, and a Sperrkonto for Chancenkarte/Ausbildung. After arrival: housing (2-3 months’ deposit), health insurance, household items. Cost of living: 1,200-2,500 EUR/month depending on the city. The EU Blue Card provides income immediately, while the Chancenkarte requires budgeting for 6-12 months without income. You should set a realistic budget.
