SENTIMENTS OF FOREIGNERS LIVING IN GERMANY: INSIGHTS & TRENDS 2024
Living in Germany brings a mix of opportunities and challenges, as reflected in a recent poll of The Berlin Life community. In our last newsletter, we posed a question: “As a foreigner in Germany, how good do you feel about living here right now?”
229 people responded, and the results revealed a wide spectrum of emotions ranging from optimism to uncertainty. While 44% said they felt “mostly good but sometimes worry,” others were divided between hope, ambivalence, and complete dissatisfaction. The results shed light on the reality and diversity of experiences foreigners face in Germany.
In this guide, we’ll:
⭐ Dive deeper into the sentiments and their meaning in a broader context.
⭐ Look at changes from the same poll conducted six months earlier.
⭐ Explore the factors shaping the evolving perspectives.
Let’s dive deeper and take a closer look at the sentiments of foreigners living in Germany.
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SENTIMENTS OF FOREIGNERS LIVING IN GERMANY
As a foreigner living in Germany for 10 years, I’ve mostly felt good about my decision to move here. There were moments when I thought about moving back to Canada, but my desire to stay in Germany has always won out. I plan to spend the rest of my life here, and not much could convince me to move home. Everyone’s situation differs, but I’m far happier and healthier here than elsewhere.
That said, I worry about the current economic situation and the growing popularity of the far right, and most people I speak with feel the same way. Finding out that AfD had a conference to deport people, even those who are citizens doesn’t sit right. Watching extremist groups come to Pride parades in different German cities with violent intent to disrupt a loving celebration is much the same. Seeing people openly desire to cede European sovereignty and freedom to fascist dictators makes you wonder if large swathes of our society have collectively lost their minds.
While people like me have the privilege to get up and leave, it’s not like that for everyone. Others have migrated to Germany to escape wars, oppressive regimes, and more. They can’t just move back home, and their worries loom much larger.
ℹ️ Check out our guide to helping Ukrainians in Berlin.
The findings from our polls highlight the dynamic and multifaceted experiences of foreigners living in Germany. While many find moments of positivity and stability, the growing sense of ambivalence and dissatisfaction points to challenges that need attention, be it personal, societal, or systemic.
As we compare sentiments over the past six months, it is clear that external factors and personal circumstances play a significant role in shaping these perspectives. Whether individuals feel optimistic, uncertain, or ready to leave, their stories are a testament to the complexity of living abroad.
Moving forward, fostering dialogue, building supportive communities, and addressing key concerns can help create a more inclusive and fulfilling experience for everyone navigating life in Germany.
Key Insights
Analyzing the results, there are some key insights that can be derived.
1) A Spectrum of Experiences
⭐ The responses reveal a diverse range of experiences among foreigners in Germany, with a balance between optimism and ambivalence. Nearly 44% feel mostly good about life, which is encouraging and indicates that many find comfort and stability despite challenges.
⭐ However, the significant percentage who are “undecided” (39%) highlights that many community members might be grappling with uncertainty, perhaps due to cultural, professional, or personal adjustments.
2) Optimism Exists, But It’s Limited
⭐ While 7% are optimistic for the future, this relatively small number suggests that systemic or personal hurdles may prevent many from fully embracing long-term prospects in Germany.
3) The Role of Worries and Doubts
⭐ The majority of respondents (44%) are positive yet still carry occasional worries. This reflects the common experience of immigrants facing day-to-day challenge, such as language barriers, bureaucracy, or adapting to Germany’s cultural norms.
4) Ambivalence is a Clear Theme
⭐ The 39% “undecided” is a compelling figure. It suggests that for many, Germany may not yet feel like “home,” even if they are not actively unhappy. This could be due to temporary work contracts, plans to move elsewhere, or uncertainty about integration.
5) Recognizing the Outliers
⭐ The 11% who have left or want to leave represent a smaller but important subset. Understanding their reasons could highlight areas where Germany could improve for foreigners, such as better job opportunities, inclusivity, or overcoming a sense of isolation.
Trends and Shifts in the Sentiments
In addition to running this poll in November 2024, we also ran the poll in June 2024. Unfortunately the sentiments have since shifted to a more pessimistic outlook.
Here are some main takeaways highlighting the shifting sentiments of foreigners living in Germany.
Main Takeaways
1) Decline in Optimism
⭐ The percentage of people who feel “optimistic for the future” dropped significantly from 14% to 7%.
⭐ This halving of optimism might suggest growing concerns or frustrations among the community, perhaps due to external factors like economic uncertainty, bureaucracy, or cultural challenges.
2) Slight Decrease in “Mostly Good” Responses
⭐ The “mostly good, but sometimes worry” group has shrunk from 49% to 44%.
⭐ While still the largest group, this decline suggests that some individuals who previously felt “mostly good” might now be more uncertain or dissatisfied.
3) Increase in Ambivalence
⭐ The “undecided” group grew from 32% to 39%, another significant increase.
⭐ This shift indicates a growing sense of uncertainty or neutrality, with many people feeling stuck or in limbo about their lives in Germany.
4) Doubling of Dissatisfaction
⭐ The “want to leave/already left” group jumped from 6% to 11%, nearly doubling.
⭐ This change signals an increase in dissatisfaction or disillusionment among some foreigners. Examining the reasons for this shift could highlight pain points that might not have been as pronounced six months ago, such as economic pressures, cultural adaptation difficulties, or lack of long-term opportunities.
5) Overall Sentiment Shift
⭐ Over the past six months, the community has seen a shift from generally positive or hopeful sentiments to more neutral or negative ones.
⭐ The combined percentage of those who are optimistic or “mostly good” decreased from 63% to 51%, while those who are undecided or dissatisfied increased from 38% to 50%.
⭐ This indicates a notable balance shift, where more people are moving toward feelings of uncertainty or frustration.
Causes of the Shift
Why is there a shift in sentiments, especially one showing a decline in optimism? Likely causes include:
⭐ Ongoing economic pressures like rising inflation, cost of living, or housing challenges.
⭐ Cultural and/or bureaucratic frustrations such as prolonged struggles with integration, language barriers, or navigating German bureaucracy.
⭐ Broader geopolitical or economic instability.
What We Can Do About It
Despite a worsening outlook, there are things we can collectively do to make things (at least somewhat) better for ourselves:
⭐ For those who feel good: Celebrate the small victories and focus on maintaining stability while addressing occasional worries. It might help to connect with others who feel similarly for mutual encouragement. We recommend checking out our guide about how to make friends in Berlin.
⭐ For the undecided: Reflect on what would make Germany feel more like “home.” Are there steps like joining communities, learning the language, or finding hobbies—that could help? Fostering community connections can provide support, new perspectives, and practical advice, helping us to embrace solidarity through our shared experience. See our list of the top recommended meetups in Berlin.
⭐ For those considering leaving: Acknowledge that it’s okay to explore options. Every experience is a stepping stone, whether it leads to deeper roots in Germany or opportunities elsewhere. It’s fine to feel differently about living in Germany now compared to six months ago. External and internal factors play a role, and change is part of the immigrant journey.
It’s difficult to assess how the situation in Germany will develop, but in the meantime, it’s important to keep talking and checking in on how people are feeling. In this way, we can offer support to one another. Hopefully, you can find that through The Berlin Life, by coming to one of our community events or taking advantage of some of our recommended resources.
A Disclaimer
While the information here provides valuable insights into the sentiments of foreigners in Germany, interpreting the results requires caution due to the uneven sample sizes, the non-representative sample of the foreign population, the obvious self-selection bias, and the lack of detailed contextual data.
FAQ
Frequenltly asked questions about foriegners settling into life in Germany.
What economic thresholds seem to correlate with positive sentiment among foreigners in Germany?
Based on community feedback, annual salaries above €60,000 in Berlin/Hamburg, €70,000 in Munich/Frankfurt typically correlate with positive sentiment, allowing for comfortable housing, savings, and social activities. Below €45,000, many report financial stress affecting overall satisfaction. Housing costs consuming more than 35% of income consistently predict negative sentiment. Having 6+ months emergency savings provides psychological security improving overall satisfaction.
How has Germany's economic situation specifically affected foreign resident sentiment in 2024?
The 2024 economic challenges significantly impacted foreign residents through: startup layoffs affecting tech workers, reduced hiring in traditional industries, inflation outpacing salary increases, housing market becoming even more competitive, and uncertainty around visa renewals during economic downturns. Many temporary residents face difficult decisions about staying during career setbacks versus returning to home countries with better economic prospects.
What impact has the rise of far-right politics had on foreign residents' sense of security?
The increasing visibility of AfD and far-right demonstrations has created psychological stress for many international residents, particularly those from non-European backgrounds. Even citizens report feeling unwelcome in certain regions. This political climate contributes to the “undecided” category, as people question long-term safety and acceptance. Many report avoiding certain areas or events, impacting their quality of life and integration efforts.
What role does German language proficiency play in overall satisfaction among foreigners?
Language proficiency is the strongest predictor of long-term satisfaction in Germany. Residents with A1-A2 German often feel isolated and frustrated with bureaucracy. B1-B2 speakers report significant improvements in daily life and professional opportunities. C1+ speakers integrate successfully into German social circles and navigate systems confidently. Even modest improvements from A2 to B1 can dramatically shift sentiment from negative to neutral.
How long does it typically take for sentiment to stabilize for new residents in Germany?
Most experience a “U-curve” adaptation: initial excitement (3-6 months), culture shock and frustration (6-18 months), gradual adjustment (18-36 months), and stabilization (3+ years). Language proficiency is the biggest factor – those reaching B2+ German typically report dramatically improved satisfaction within 2-3 years. Professional stability also correlates strongly with positive long-term sentiment.
How important is proximity to home country for sentiment among different groups?
Europeans often report higher satisfaction partly due to easy home visits, maintaining family connections, and cultural similarities. Americans and Canadians face expensive flights home, creating pressure for holidays to “count,” sometimes leading to disappointment. Those from conflict zones or with limited return options often show both highest appreciation for German stability and highest stress about permanent integration. Proximity affects both practical logistics and psychological comfort levels.
How do visa restrictions and residency requirements affect sentiment among different groups?
EU citizens generally report higher satisfaction due to unrestricted residence and work rights. Non-EU residents face ongoing stress from visa renewals, job-tied residence permits, and pathway uncertainty to permanent residence. Students on temporary visas often feel pressure to secure employment quickly. Family reunification delays create additional stress. Those with permanent residence or citizenship report significantly better mental health and life satisfaction.
How do professional vs personal factors influence satisfaction among international residents?
Professional satisfaction (meaningful work, fair compensation, career growth) provides stability but isn’t sufficient alone. Personal factors (friendships, romantic relationships, hobbies, sense of belonging) often determine long-term happiness. Many professionally successful expats still leave due to social isolation. The most satisfied foreigners typically achieve both professional fulfillment AND personal community integration.
What seasonal patterns affect foreign resident sentiment in Germany?
Winter months (November-February) consistently show lower satisfaction rates due to limited daylight, cold weather, and reduced social activities. Spring brings renewed optimism and social connections. Summer provides peak satisfaction with outdoor events, festivals, and vacation opportunities. Many negative decisions about leaving Germany are made during winter months. Seasonal Affective Disorder disproportionately affects those from warmer climates, impacting overall sentiment.
What role does housing situation play in overall satisfaction among foreigners?
Housing quality and location dramatically affect sentiment. Those in central locations with reasonable commutes report higher satisfaction. Shared housing (WG) experiences vary widely – positive WGs provide instant social integration, while negative ones create ongoing stress. Home ownership, though rare, correlates with highest satisfaction and long-term commitment. Extended hotel/temporary housing periods consistently predict negative sentiment and departure decisions.
What types of community connections most improve sentiment among international residents?
Mixed communities (locals + internationals) provide the best long-term satisfaction, offering both cultural bridge-building and practical local knowledge. Professional networks help with career stability and confidence. Hobby-based communities (sports, arts, volunteering) create organic friendships. Parent networks for families provide crucial practical and social support. Religious or cultural communities offer identity preservation while building local connection
How effective are formal integration programs versus informal community building?
Formal programs (integration courses, Volkshochschule) provide essential language and administrative knowledge but rarely create lasting friendships. Informal community building through shared interests, work relationships, or neighborhood connections typically generate stronger emotional support networks. The most successful integration combines formal learning with informal community participation. Employer-sponsored social programs often bridge both approaches effectively.
What support resources are most lacking for foreign residents experiencing integration challenges?
Mental health services in English remain severely limited outside major cities, creating barriers for those struggling with adaptation stress. Career counseling for foreign credentials and job market navigation needs expansion. Housing support and tenant rights education could prevent exploitation. Legal aid for visa/residence issues is often financially inaccessible. Peer mentorship programs connecting established and new residents show promising but limited availability.
How do different age groups cope with integration challenges in Germany?
Young adults (20s-30s) adapt more easily to language and cultural differences but may struggle with career establishment and long-term planning. Middle-aged professionals (30s-40s) face family integration challenges and career transition difficulties but often have financial resources for support services. Older adults (50+) may struggle more with language acquisition but often have clearer lifestyle priorities and acceptance of slower integration. Retirement-age expats typically show highest satisfaction due to reduced professional pressures.
What factors most influence the decision to stay permanently versus leave Germany?
Long-term commitment decisions typically hinge on: career trajectory and professional fulfillment, quality of personal relationships and social connections, housing stability and neighborhood satisfaction, family considerations (education for children, elderly parent care), financial security and retirement planning, and overall sense of belonging versus feeling like permanent outsider. Language proficiency often serves as the gateway factor enabling other positive developments.
How do family status and life stage changes affect sentiment toward living in Germany?
Single individuals often prioritize career opportunities and social life quality. Couples focus on relationship stability and shared adaptation experiences. Parents emphasize education quality, healthcare access, and child-friendly community environments. Empty nesters may reassess original motivations for staying. Each life transition provides opportunity for sentiment shifts, requiring renewed evaluation of Germany’s fit for evolving priorities and needs.
What early warning signs predict likelihood of leaving Germany among foreign residents?
Early indicators include, persistent language learning plateaus after 18+ months, social isolation despite community efforts, professional stagnation or repeated job dissatisfaction, housing instability or neighborhood conflicts, financial stress despite adequate income, consistent negative comparisons with home country, and lack of local support during personal crises. Multiple simultaneous factors typically precede departure decisions rather than single issues.
How can Germany improve retention rates among skilled foreign residents?
Policy improvements could include: streamlined bureaucracy with English-language options, faster permanent residence pathways for skilled workers, expanded mental health and integration support services, housing market reforms to improve affordability and availability, workplace culture initiatives promoting inclusion, and community program funding connecting locals with international residents. Many solutions require coordination between federal, state, and local levels for maximum effectiveness.
What do you think about this guide on the sentiments of foreigners living in Germany? Share your thoughts with our community by leaving a comment.
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Cheryl Howard, Founder @ The Berlin Life
Hi, I’m Cheryl. My mission is to help you move to Berlin and find work.
A Canadian in Berlin for 10+ years, I have the unique experience of moving to Berlin – not once, but twice. During my time in Berlin, I’ve had five different visas and worked as both a freelancer and a permanent employee for numerous Berlin companies. I even managed to find a new job during the pandemic and again in 2023, during Germany’s recession and massive layoffs in tech.
My day job has involved work as a hiring manager, overseeing the recruitment of countless people, as well as a team coach helping teams and individuals work better and find happiness in their careers. Through my side projects, I’ve also shared my personal experiences by publishing a series of helpful blog posts, creating a thriving community of job seekers, and hosting events to help people find work in Berlin. In 2021, I decided to put my coaching and recruiting talents to use by creating The Berlin Life, bringing my existing content and community together in one spot.
The combination of my personal and professional experience means I know exactly what it takes to move to Berlin and find work.