• Population: 83 million
• Capital: Berlin
• Demographics: Roughly 80% of Germany is ethnically German, 10% come from other European countries, especially Poland, 5% comes from the Middle East, especially Turkey, and the remaining 5% comes from the rest of the world.
• Religion: 35% of Germans are secular, 29% practice Roman Catholicism, 27% adhere to Evangelical Christianity, and 6% are Muslims. The remainder of the population practices other religions.
• Type of government: Representative Democracy, Parliamentary Republic
• Regional Membership: Germany is part of the European Union and the Schengen region
• Currency: Euro
• Common food: sauerkraut, beer, bratwurst, döner Kebab (not traditionally German, but very popular)

The official language of Germany is German. Minority languages include Turkish, Arabic, Kurdish, Polish, the Balkan languages and Russian.

67% of German citizens claim to be able to communicate in at least one foreign language, and English is the most commonly studied second language in Germany.

As a University of Illinois student, you have access to library resources (such as Rosetta Stone and Libguides). You may also want to consider free sources to learn basic phrases, or to refresh your language skills prior to departure.

It is each students responsibility to independently verify the visa information below and ensure they apply and secure the appropriate documentation to travel and stay in their host country for the duration of their program.

U.S. citizens staying in Germany for longer than 90 days require a visa. You will need to fill out an official visa application form to Germany, as well as gather all required visa application materials such as a valid passport, passport photos, etc.

To read more on passport and visa terminology see the Passports & Visas page of this website.

Phones

• There are a few main cell data providers in Germany, including T-Mobile, Vodafone, O2, and Orange. All of these carriers have prepaid SIM cards available for purchase and use during your stay in Germany at the data provider or a tech giant like Media Market.
• Most in-country SIM cards will allow you to purchase a prepaid cell data plan, renewable monthly, for the time you are in Germany. Some carriers allow you to purchase SIM cards online before entering the country.
• Make sure you have the Duo Mobile app set up on your phone. If you get a new SIM card, use the passcode options instead of PUSH, or go to UI Verify website to enter your new phone information.

Internet

• Open wifi is available in most national restaurants and hotels around the country, as well as some local restaurant chains.
• Germany's internet infrastructure is fairly developed, so speeds and data access should be relatively available throughout.

Electricity

• Germany, like the rest of Europe, uses Type C and Type F plugs with two round prongs instead of flat ones. You will need to purchase a simple plug adapter (see pictures below) to use any US electronic devices and appliances in Germany.
• While an adapter makes your device fit into the local outlet, a converter converts the voltage. The voltage will not be the same as in the U.S. For that reason, it is recommended that you do NOT bring appliances such as hair dryers or hair straighteners with you unless you also purchase a voltage converter.

Germany is a cash-centered country. Establishments that accept credit and debit cards may not be as widespread as other parts of Europe. It is always a good idea to have at least some local currency with you in cash for regular transactions and in case of emergencies.

Banking Tips

• The European Central Bank, the main hub for the European Euro, is headquartered in Frankfurt.
• Major retail banks operating in Germany include Deutche Bank, Commerzbank, Kfw, DZ Bank, Landesbank Baden-Wurttemberg, and Bayern LB.
• Credit and debit cards can be used to extract local currecy from any German banks' ATMs.
• It is a good idea to consult your local US bank for information about international transaction fees, and to notify your bank of your travels before departing to Germany.

Climate

• Germany has warm summers and cold winters. It rains frequently.
• Northern Germany will experience somewhat of a coastal climate due to its proximity to the Baltic Sea. Whereas Southern Germany features a more continental climate.
• For the most part, students should pack for the season. Even in summer, it is important to have a sweater for chilly evenings. Rain gear is certainly necessary.

Packing

• For the most part, students should pack for the season. Even in summer, it is important to have a sweater for chilly evenings.
• For more packing considerations, view the Packing List (PDF).

Traveling Locally

• Train and bus travel are the best way to get around Germany.
• Trains will be faster and generally more comfortable, but buses will be more affordable.
• In major cities, public transportation is well-developed and can be easily used to get around town.
• Rideshare apps do not have a major presence in Germany, but traditional taxis can be found in urban areas.

Flights

• The busiest airports in Germany include: Frankfurt, Franz Josef Strauss Airport in Munich, and Düsseldorf
• Common airlines include Lufthansa, LTU, Condor, and budget airlines like RyanAir

Each student faces different barriers and unique challenges based on their identity. For example, how you identify in the United States may not be how you choose to identify abroad because of the local social culture. We encourage all students to reflect on the different aspects of their identity and consider how they may play a role in their study abroad experience. To help with this thought process: visit the State Department website and look into the Identity & Inclusion resources available on this website.

International Safety and Security provides important wellness tips, along with using your insurance and the emergency phone number. Be sure to become familiar with this website and the resources available to you. Review the U.S. Embassy page and the Department of State website for additional safety resources.

Enroll yourself in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State. Registration in STEP will allow you to get alerts on the latest safety and security information. In addition, the information you provide enables the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.