2025 is shaping up to be a busy year for Germany, with significant events and changes that foreign residents should be aware of. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what to expect:
January
Electronic Patient File: The roll-out for people with statutory health insurance begins, allowing virtual access to medical records unless objected.
Deutschlandticket Price Increase: The travel pass for local transport will cost €58 per month, up from €49.
New Property Tax Rules: These come into force, potentially increasing costs for some households.
EU Border Checks: The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will be required for non-EU nationals entering the UK from January 8th.
Minimum Wage Increase: Expected changes in money and tax regulations affecting household budgets.
Public Holiday: Neujahr (New Year’s Day) on January 1st.
European Capital of Culture: Chemnitz will host exhibitions, events, and projects throughout the year.
February
Snap Election: Germans will vote on February 23rd due to the collapse of the previous coalition.
Karneval: Celebrations, including Weiberfastnacht on February 27th and Rosenmontag on March 3rd.
March
Daylight Saving Time: Clocks go forward one hour on March 30th.
Skilled Worker Immigration Reform Anniversary: Marks one year since significant changes to encourage qualified workers.
Entry & Exit System (EES): Potential introduction of new biometric passport checks.
April
ETA Visa Waiver: Extended to all EU citizens from April 2nd.
Easter Holidays: Good Friday on April 18th and Easter Monday on April 21st.
Thuringian Bach Weeks: Baroque music festival from April 11th to May 4th.
May
Labour Day: Nationwide public holiday on May 1st.
Surname Rules: Relaxation of rules allowing double names for married couples and children.
June
Tax Declarations: Deadline for 2023 tax returns for self-employed individuals using an accountant is June 2nd.
Accessibility Strengthening Act: Comes into force on June 28th.
Opportunity Card Anniversary: Marks one year of the points-based visa for non-EU nationals.
Reformed Citizenship Law Anniversary: Marks one year since changes allowing dual nationality.
July
Tax Deadline: For 2024 tax declarations is July 31st.
August
Holiday Month: Peak holiday season with many businesses closing and school holidays ongoing.
September
Back to School and Work: New term begins.
Oktoberfest: Starts on September 20th and runs through October 5th.
October
Day of Unity: Public holiday on October 3rd.
Festival of Lights: Estimated to take place from October 3rd to 12th.
Daylight Saving Time Ends: Clocks go back one hour on October 26th.
November
ETIAS Visa Waiver: Potential autumn start date for the €7 visa waiver for non-EU visitors.
December
Christmas Day: Falls on a Thursday, December 25th.
Stay informed and plan ahead to make the most of the upcoming year in Germany! For more details, you can check out the.