Date Published: October 9, 2024
When Mada D Nkhoma landed at Berlin-Brandenburg “Willy Brandt” Airport armed with a fully-funded master of science scholarship offer from a prestigious German gGmbH, he thought the hardest part was over. “I quickly realised that securing the scholarship was just the beginning of my journey,” he recalls with a laugh. “There were so many administrative and cultural nuances I hadn’t anticipated.”
Mada’s experience echoes what many Malawians face when relocating to Germany. Today, as he helps other newcomers through our association’s programs, he shares valuable insights that we’ve compiled into this comprehensive guide.
First Steps: The Critical First Three Months
Registration and Paperwork
The dreaded German bureaucracy isn’t as intimidating when you know what to expect. Priority tasks include:
Anmeldung (residence registration) – required within two weeks of arrival
Opening a bank account—We recommend starting with online banks. Contact us if you are not sure
Health insurance registration
Tax ID application
Hint: “Book your Anmeldung appointment before arriving in Germany,” advises Mada. “Some cities allow appointments up to three months in advance.”
Housing Solutions
Finding accommodation in major German cities can be challenging. Our community members recommend:
Using websites like WG-Gesucht
Considering temporary solutions like furnished apartments
Having all documents ready (last three pay slips, Schufa, employment contract)
Meaningful networks are helpful. Joining our housing support WhatsApp and Telegram groups
Language Integration
While many workplaces use English, German language skills are crucial for daily life. Our members suggest:
Joining language cafes and cultural exchange meetups
Finding a language tandem partner through our network
Enrolling in intensive German courses (we have partnerships with language schools offering discounts)
We recommend starting with Nico’s Weg, a Deutsche Welle production available as a lesson on the DW website.
Cultural Integration Tips
Understanding German Social Norms
Small cultural differences can have a big impact. Key things to remember:
Work-life boundaries are usually strictly maintained
Direct communication is valued and not considered rude
Recycling and environmental consciousness are taken seriously
Punctuality is crucial – “German time” means arriving 5-10 minutes early
Building Your Social Circle
Beyond our regular Umodzi wa Malawi events, try:
Joining sports clubs (Vereine)
Attending intercultural events
Participating in city volunteer programs
Getting involved in your local church or community centre
Professional Life
Students and Expats alike are allowed to work, wie schön.
Workplace Culture
German workplace culture might differ from what you’re used to:
Clear separation between work and personal life
Structured meeting culture with detailed agendas
Strong emphasis on qualifications and certificates
Formal communication is standard (using Sie instead of du)
Career Development
Take advantage of:
Mentorship matching program
Industry-specific networking events
CV and interview preparation services
Our regular professional development workshops
Financial Planning
Understanding German Taxes
Navigate the German tax system with these tips:
Understand which expenses are tax-deductible
Join our annual tax workshop (usually held in January)
Consider using a tax advisor (Steuerberater) for your first tax declaration
Keep all important documents (especially those related to earnings and moving expenses)
Social Security System
Learn about:
Healthcare system
Pension contributions
Unemployment insurance
Child benefits (Kindergeld)
Looking Ahead
Building a life in Germany is a journey that becomes easier with community support. Through our UMODZI you have access to a network of experienced professionals who speak your language and have walked this path before.
Get Support
Connect with our integration support team
Access our document templates and guides
Participate in our cultural exchange programs
Join our yearly newcomer orientation sessions
Share Your Experience
Are you a seasoned member of our community? Consider:
Sharing your story
Becoming a mentor
Volunteering at orientation events
Contributing to our knowledge base
Contact our integration team at info@umodzi-wa-amalawi.de to learn more about our support services or to volunteer your expertise.
Remember, every challenge you face today prepares you to help someone else tomorrow. As Mada puts it, “The warmth of the Umodzi community made Germany feel like home much sooner than I expected.”
Looking for specific information? Browse our resources page for detailed guidance, or simply contact us.
