When you arrive at a German polling station, you might be surprised to receive a ballot paper the length of a grad student's reading list. We break down why German ballots are so unbelievably long.
More than 50 million people in Germany are eligible to vote in the February 23rd election. But millions in the country who pay taxes and social security do not have the right to cast a ballot. Why is that - and is there appetite for change?
Getting a German driver’s licence can be more or less difficult for foreigners depending where they come from. Here are the countries that have reciprocity agreements with the Bundesrepublik.
Citizenship and immigration rules are a major talking point in the upcoming German elections, with the CDU/CSU threatening to end the right to multiple nationalities. What does this mean for dual nationals who currently hold German citizenship?
Among travellers and recent immigrants there can be confusion regarding public healthcare in Germany, and if those who aren't officially residents can get free treatment. Here’s what you need to know.
Long distance train travel in Germany has come to be marked by long delays and cancelled trains, which can lead to missed transfers for long-distance passengers. What are your rights when your journey is derailed?
The upcoming early election on February 23rd is the first one to take place since the government's new citizenship reform - which allows dual citizenship - came into force. So how soon do you need to have citizenship in order to vote this time?
Many non-EU tourists visiting the UK are now required to pay a £10 Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in order to enter. EU nationals will also soon have to pay for an ETA. The Local answers your questions on the rules and exemptions.
Lots of foreign residents in Germany may be planning trips to their home countries for Christmas or the winter holidays, but what if you’re waiting on a residence permit application?
The government wants to improve Germany's ability to warn residents about natural disasters and other emergencies in real time. Here's what you need to know about the 'NINA' warning app and efforts to adapt to extreme weather.
Foreign nationals in Germany waiting for their residence permits to be renewed are often told they can’t leave the country. When might you qualify for an ‘emergency’ exception?
The 'traffic light' coalition government passed landmark citizenship and immigration reforms, which have benefitted foreigners in Germany. What might happen to these laws following new elections?
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.
Long delays for residence permits without notice are increasingly common at immigration offices around Germany. Would it really help to take legal action? The Local spoke to experts to find out.
Most people applying for German citizenship will need to take the citizenship test to prove their understanding of German life and society. Here's how you can book the test - and where you can take it.
Like many countries, Germany allows prenuptial agreements which can simplify asset division if marriage ends in divorce. Not every marrying couple needs one, but there are certain cases where it makes sense, a German lawyer told The Local.
Contracting a lawyer to help you with your German citizenship application isn't likely to help you get an appointment faster. But it may help you in other ways, particularly if your citizenship authority starts ghosting you.
Whether they have a habit of loud late night arguments or like to blast techno music in the early hours of the morning, noisy neighbours are a common challenge in Germany. If you're in this situation, here are the steps you can take.
Even in privacy-obsessed Germany, you'll often be asked to provide your bank details - or IBAN - when purchasing products or setting up contracts. Is it always safe to do so - or is there a chance of fraud?
With dual nationality now permitted in Germany, foreigners with a German passport may want to reapply for an old citizenship they previously gave up or even take on a new one. Do the authorities still need to know about it?
If you want to travel around in Germany, a friend, relative or maybe a neighbour might offer you their vehicle to use. But what does the law say about driving someone else's car in Germany?
Flights and hotels are usually cheaper at off-peak times when schools are not on holiday. We look at a reader's question on whether Germany allows children to miss a few days of school to ease family holiday costs or dodge busy periods.
