Berlin Relocation Guide
Berlin is a vibrant, multicultural city and Germany’s capital, attracting professionals from around the world. Its growing economy and diverse neighborhoods offer great opportunities for relocating employees and their families.
Housing in Berlin
The Berlin housing market is dynamic and diverse, offering options ranging from historic pre-war apartments in central districts to modern flats and family homes in the suburbs. Popular neighborhoods such as Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, and Friedrichshain attract young professionals with their vibrant atmosphere and proximity to workplaces. In contrast, areas like Charlottenburg and Wilmersdorf appeal to families seeking quieter residential settings.
Rental prices have increased significantly in recent years, reflecting Berlin’s growing popularity. Currently, a one-bedroom apartment in central locations typically rents for between €1,200 and €1,800 per month, while similar units in outer districts may range from €900 to €1,400. Larger apartments suitable for families often start at €1,800 and can go beyond €3,000 depending on size and location. Because demand frequently exceeds supply, HR teams should advise employees to begin their housing search well ahead of the planned move date and consider working with relocation specialists to navigate the competitive market.
Neighborhood Overview
Choosing the right neighborhood is key for employee satisfaction. Here’s a quick snapshot:
Mitte: Central, historic, and bustling with offices, shopping, and culture. Good for employees wanting an urban lifestyle.
Prenzlauer Berg: Popular with families and expats, known for cafes, parks, and a relaxed vibe.
Friedrichshain & Kreuzberg: Trendy, creative, nightlife hubs with a young demographic.
Charlottenburg & Wilmersdorf: More upscale, quieter, and close to international schools.
Neukölln: Up-and-coming with diverse communities and affordable housing.
Pankow & Lichtenberg: Suburban feel with increasing development, suitable for families looking for more space.
Education and Childcare
For employees relocating with families, Berlin offers a broad range of childcare and schooling options. However, securing spots in public kindergartens, known as Kitas, can be challenging due to high demand. Parents often need to apply several months in advance. Private and international preschools provide alternatives with more availability but at higher costs.
When it comes to schooling, Berlin’s public schools follow the German curriculum, which can be demanding for non-German-speaking children initially. Many expatriate families, therefore, choose international or bilingual schools such as the Berlin International School or the John F. Kennedy School, which offer English-language instruction and internationally recognized programs. These schools generally require early applications and may involve tuition fees.
Culture & Lifestyle
Berlin is renowned for its rich cultural scene, international community, and relaxed lifestyle. Employees will find an abundance of museums, theaters, parks, and events that foster work-life balance. The city’s excellent public transportation system, including subways, trams, and buses, ensures convenient commutes across diverse neighborhoods.
The city embraces diversity, making it especially welcoming to expatriates. English is widely spoken in business and social settings, although learning German significantly enhances integration and daily life.
Language & Integration Support
While many professionals manage daily life with English, HR teams should encourage offering German language support to relocating employees. Berlin boasts numerous language schools, private tutors, and government-supported integration courses suitable for beginners and advanced learners alike.
Expat Friendliness
Berlin consistently ranks as one of the top destinations for expatriates in Europe, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, diverse international community, and extensive support networks. English is widely spoken in business, startups, and many social settings. This makes it easier for newcomers to adapt quickly, especially in professional environments.
The city offers a wealth of expat organizations, social clubs, and networking groups, as well as coworking spaces that serve as hubs for international professionals. These communities play a vital role in easing social integration and providing peer support.
Healthcare in Berlin is high-quality and accessible. Many doctors and medical facilities offer services in English, helping expats navigate medical needs without language barriers.
Immigration and Residency
Navigating immigration formalities is a crucial step for relocating employees, and Berlin’s immigration authorities play a central role. The Berlin Immigration Office, known locally as the Ausländerbehörde, also known as LEA, manages residence permits and related documentation. Applicants should be prepared for potentially long waiting times for appointments and processing due to high demand. However, the LEA includes a specialized sub-department dedicated to supporting businesses and their relocating employees.
When companies partner with us, they gain exclusive access to this efficient and business-focused unit, which offers direct consultation and personalized support. This streamlined approach typically results in significantly shorter waiting times—often around one to two weeks for appointments and processing—compared to the longer, several-month waits faced by individual applicants. BIS staff typically speak English, making communication smoother for international employees.
How We Support
By working with us, your HR team and relocating employees receive hands-on guidance through immigration, schooling, housing, and integration, ensuring a smooth transition and quick adaptation to life in Berlin.
Contact us today to discover how our innovative software and expert services can simplify your employee relocations and deliver seamless integration in Berlin.
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided here and on relokate’s website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.