What do I have to know about finances?

The currency in Germany is the Euro (€). 19 of the 28 EU Member States use it as a common currency. In addition to copper and gold euro cents (1 to 50 cents), there are also the Euro coins (1 and 2 euro) and the euro bills (5 to 500 euros). In Germany there are many banks in smaller places. If you can have a permanent residence in Germany and the necessary papers choose your bank freely.

In Germany usually paid in cash, by debit or credit card. Attention: payment by card is not possible in all the shops and sometimes only from an amount of € 10, as the shops have to pay this fee. Taxis rarely accept cards. Please ask in advance if your card is accepted.

Apart from international transfers that require a sender and recipient account, there is the possibility to transfer money abroad or from abroad to Germany, even if they have no account. This money can then be immediately picked up by the receiver. For this purpose there are special service. Please only send a certified service money abroad. There are several companies that offer these services with stores and so-called "agents" in all the major cities. These agents can be found often in supermarkets, banks or post offices. Please give no money to individuals who wish to offer you this service at cheaper charges. Do you want to send money abroad, bring this in cash to an agent of a provider. You fill out a form with the name of the recipient and receive a reference number. This number you call the recipient and ask him to contact a branch of the supplier on its site. He calls there the number it receives in return immediately sent you money. For this purpose, different levels of fees are due depending on the provider.

The money you receive from the social security office is primarily intended for your care. Please only send money abroad if you do not urgently need this even for food or clothing.