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Retiring in Germany might not seem like the obvious choice to many, however, there are a great many advantages to choosing Germany as you retirement destination of choice.

Having recently carried out a study on people wanting to retire overseas, I have completed the necessary investigation on potential locations and the reasons why they could be your ideal retirement location. Further to my recent blogs on why “Spain” & “France” could be ideal retirement locations for you, I have now listed the reasons why retiring in Germany could be the perfect location for you.

Germany isn’t usually front-of-mind for many retirees. After all, it isn’t exactly renowned for its ultra laid-back lifestyle, or its subtropical climate. However, it is nevertheless a very appealing and enjoyable destination for those looking to retire in a different country.

Each region possesses its own unique appeal and charm. As well as being one of the most important business centres in Europe, Germany has the world’s fourth-largest economy. It is therefore perhaps no wonder that the expatriate population continues to rise every year as more and more see the attraction of living here.

There’s no need to worry about relocating in retirement when it comes to your financial planning. Having a financial adviser will ensure your move is as hassle-free as possible and your pension funds, savings and investments continue to flourish.

Here are the 10 reasons why you should consider retiring in Germany and to make this your new home in retirement:

Quality of life

Germany’s political stability and low crime rate are just two of the many reasons why the quality of life in Germany is consistently one of the highest-ranked in the world. In fact, a recent study of international cities found that Germany had four of the 16 best cities in the world to call home: Munich, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, and Berlin.

Cost of living

Of course, this all depends on where you’re coming from. However, if you’re emigrating from the UK, it’s likely that you’ll find Germany to be a more affordable place to live. Recent studies have shown Germany to be less expensive than the UK on everything from dining out, to rent, to groceries.

Change of seasons

Some retirees want a warm, tropical locale. If that’s what you’re looking for, retiring in Germany probably isn’t the spot for you. However, if you want to experience a full range of seasons, Germany could be ideal. In Germany, you’ll get a pleasant spring and warm summer, followed by changing leaves in the autumn and even snow in winter.

Easy residency requirements

If you’re retiring to another country, one of your biggest concerns may be how easy it will be to gain residency. It’s not too difficult in Germany if you’re coming from within the EU and as long as you meet two requirements. First, you need to have health insurance. Second, you need to show financial self-sufficiency, either through a pension or sufficient financial assets.

Easy health insurance access

Speaking of health insurance, this will likely be a big concern as you choose retiring in Germany as your option. In Germany, you’ll find a well-established private health insurance market for expats. A quick search online will provide you with plenty of options.

You may also have access to national health care, depending on where you’re coming from. For example, if you have a state pension from the UK, you qualify for Germany’s national health program for retirees.

Public transportation

Getting around is no problem in Germany. Public transportation is everywhere. Whether you want to ride the bus, rent a bike, or even hail a taxi, you’ll have plenty of options. For travel within Germany, you can simply hop on the ICE, which stands for Intercity Express. There are several ICE routes that run throughout the country.

No speed limit

Are you a car lover? Then Germany could be perfect for you. Not only will you have direct access to Germany’s famed automotive industry, but you’ll also be able to drive those cars at any speed you want. Many of Germany’s highways have no speed limit, which gives you the perfect opportunity to let your inner F1 driver loose.

The food

Do you love beer, pretzels, and sweets? Then retiring in Germany is the option for you. No matter where you settle in the country, you’re sure to find a nearby tavern with big steins of beer and authentic German cuisine.

German clubs

Germany is a great place to meet new friends, largely because of the many German clubs, or ‘vereines’. Germany has a network of thousands of clubs, each dedicated to specific interests, from gardening to golfing to cars. Whatever your interest, there’s a ‘vereine’ for you. Find a local chapter and dive right in.

Travel throughout Europe

Finally, Germany makes a great launching point for travel throughout Europe. In fact, the ICE trains run to Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. All you need is a passport, and you can start your next adventure.

I hope you have found this blog on retiring in Germany useful. As always, if you have any further queries, please do get in touch.

Seeking advice from an independent financial adviser will ensure your relocation is as stress-free as possible, so you can enjoy your retirement in your new home knowing your finances are under control. To learn how to choose a great financial adviser, download our free guide here.

About Mike Coady

Mike Coady is an expat expert based in Dubai and is on hand to help with all of the above and more.

Mike is an award-winning money coach and industry leader in the financial sector.

Qualified to UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) standards, a member of the Chartered Insurance Institute, a Fellow of the Institute of Sales Management (FISM), a Fellow of the Institute of Directors (FIoD), and featured as a highly qualified Financial Adviser in Which Financial Adviser.

To learn how to choose a great financial adviser, download our free guide.

Blog published by Mike Coady.

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