cozycozy: Your guide to being a digital nomad in Germany

Embarking on a digital nomad journey in Germany promises opportunities for remote work, cultural exploration and overall unforgettable experiences. cozycozy, the nomad-friendly accommodation search engine, presents the following guide to help you navigate working while travelling abroad in Germany.

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Working in Germany as a freelancer

Discover the conditions for working, pathways for freelancers / entrepreneurs and upcoming changes for foreign nationals in 2024 in Germany. Whether you're an EU citizen or hail from a non-EU country, this guide is your key to a successful digital nomad adventure.

First, let’s see the conditions for working in Germany!

Legal documents needed for working in Germany

Although Germany lacks a dedicated digital nomad visa, it welcomes freelancers and entrepreneurs. EU citizens can work remotely in Germany without a specific permit.

On the other hand, The Skilled Immigration Act (FEG) aims to attract skilled non-EU workers to the country. Starting from November 2023, this act will be implemented in stages.

In 2024, a new “opportunity card” called Chancenkarte will be introduced, enabling foreign nationals from non-EU countries to relocate to Germany for employment. The eligibility criteria includes a Bachelor's degree, three years of professional experience, German language proficiency or a previous stay in Germany and being 35 years old or younger. Germany also offers a Self-Employed Visa (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) for those significantly contributing to the economy.

EU citizens and remote work

EU citizens can work remotely from Germany without a specific work permit, but compliance with local regulations is essential. Keep in mind that staying in Germany for over 183 days in a calendar year makes you a taxable resident.

Are you an EU citizen looking for a place to stay in Germany? Check out cozycozy for the best accommodation offerings. 

The best German cities for digital nomads

Germany is a massive country with many different options for visitors to explore. But which city is the best for you as a remote worker?

• Berlin: Standing out as a startup and tech hotspot, Berlin makes for an excellent choice for tech-savvy digital nomads. The living costs remain affordable compared to other major European cities.
• Munich: This city boasts a robust economy, housing many multinational corporations, and providing networking opportunities and potential collaborations.
• Hamburg: A prominent business and trade centre which caters to digital nomads across various industries.
• Cologne: Despite it being located in the industrial Ruhrgebiet area, Cologne’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, events and festivals give it a vibrant touch. Its proximity to major European cities, like Paris which is just two hours away, enhances travel opportunities.
• Leipzig: A burgeoning city with a growing creative and cultural scene which offers a unique environment for digital nomads seeking inspiration and a more economical lifestyle.

For any type of stay in Germany, you can easily find accommodations with cozycozy, the ultimate accommodation search engine. It compares options and prices for you in one place, showcasing all available hotels, short-term and vacation rentals.

Tips for balancing work and exploration in Germany

cozycozy gives you a few tips to make your remote working experience in Germany more exciting:

• Flexible co-working hubs: Use spaces like St. Oberholz in Berlin for a vibrant work setting in the heart of the city.
• Tech-savvy travel: Opt for efficient transportation like Deutsche Bahn, turning train rides between cities into productive work sessions.
• Nature-inspired work retreats: Select destinations like the Black Forest for a working retreat, seamlessly blending work and natural surroundings.
• Visit tourist attractions: Explore landmarks like Cologne Cathedral midweek to avoid crowds and blend work with cultural experiences.
• Culinary discoveries: Sample local dishes such as currywurst in Berlin or pretzels in Munich, integrating cultural exploration into your daily routine.

Whether you're a fan of history, culture or nightlife, Germany has much to offer its visitors - especially for those who want to stay for a while to work remotely.

cozycozy: Find the best accommodations in Germany

cozycozy simplifies the search for nomad-friendly stays, presenting a range of German retreats across budgets. From budget to luxury, they cater to diverse preferences with straightforward accessibility, enhancing user experience.

You can travel across Germany, discover the Black Forest or the Bavarian Alps and choose accommodation for shorter stays with cozycozy.