German Residence Permit

As an expat moving to Berlin, it’s crucial for you to understand the residence permit requirements. All foreign nationals, except for people from Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, Lichtenstein, and EU countries, need a residence permit to stay in Germany for more than 90 days. In general, there are three residence permits that allow you to stay in Germany.

The Temporary Residence Permit or Limited Residence Permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) lets you stay in Germany for a year, but you’ll need a specific reason for staying, like studying, working, or marriage. When you apply for this type of permit, you’ll need to explain why you want to stay, and your permit will specify this reason. You won’t be permitted to engage in an activity that your residence permit doesn’t allow. Once your permit expires, you may have the option to extend it provided your situation has not changed and you still fulfil the requirements.

The EU Blue Card is for foreign nationals of non-EU countries who are highly skilled in a profession and want to work in Germany. Highly qualified employees have completed a higher education degree, such as a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. If you have a background in IT or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), you’re more likely to get the EU Blue Card.

The Permanent Residence Permit or Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) lets you work and travel in and out of Germany indefinitely. To get this permit, you need to hold the Temporary Residence Permit or the EU Blue Card. You will need to prove that you have worked for a minimum of five years, that the Federal Employment Agency approved your job, and that you have paid the necessary taxes and contributions to the government. There’s also a German language proficiency requirement, so you will need to brush up on your Deutsch.

For more information about residence permits, visit Berlins’ Official website for all the answers you need.

Finding Accommodation in Berlin

Finding a place in Berlin to call home can be both exciting and challenging. The city offers a diverse range of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Popular areas among expats include Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, Kreuzberg, and Friedrichshain. Start your search for accommodation early, as demand for rental properties can be high.

Browsing expat websites, local classifieds, and real estate agents can be useful sources for finding your home. Keep your personal preferences in mind when choosing your ideal area to settle in. It’s also useful to consider your budget, proximity to amenities, and transportation options. Where you choose to settle is important as it could play a big role in determining how well you blend into your new culture.

Berlin’s Cost of Living

Berlin is relatively affordable compared to other European capitals. Planning your budget is super important, but don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be daunting! When you’re thinking about your expenses in Berlin, you’ll want to consider things like accommodation, groceries, utilities, getting around the city, and of course, having some funds set aside for fun leisure activities. The good news is that Berlin has plenty of affordable dining options, street food, and local markets for you to explore without breaking the bank. To give you an idea of what to expect, here’s a rough breakdown of your possible expenses (July 2023):

• 1 Bedroom Apartment Rental (€900-€1300)
• Monthly Transportation Pass (€57)
• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant (€12)
• Basic Utilities for 85m² Apartment – Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage (€350)
• 1 Liter Milk (€1.28)

Job Opportunities and Work Culture in Berlin

Berlin is such an exciting place with its buzzing startup scene and creative industries. If you’re on the lookout for career growth, you’re in the right spot. The city has fantastic opportunities in areas like technology, design, media, and arts. To boost your chances of landing a job you like, take some time to get to know the local job market and connect with expat and professional networks. It’s important to understand the German work culture. Punctuality is highly valued, teamwork is key, and professional etiquette will help you blend right in with the local business environment.

Berlin’s Public Transportation and Mobility

Berlin’s public transport system is excellent, it includes a network of buses, trams, U-Bahn – known for its yellow-coloured trains (subway), and S-Bahn (trains above ground). Whether you’re looking to explore the city centre or the outer districts, you can get there easily, comfortably, and safely. Obtaining a monthly or yearly travel pass can save you money if you plan to use public transport frequently. The city also encourages cycling as a convenient and eco-friendly way of getting around, with bike lanes and bike-sharing services available throughout Berlin.

Fun Facts About Berlin

1. Berlin is renowned for its thriving street art scene. Colourful murals, graffiti, and urban art can be found all over the city, particularly in neighbourhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall covered in murals, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
2. Berliners have an unusual karaoke tradition called “Bear Pit Karaoke.” Held at the historic Mauerpark, brave individuals take the stage in an open-air amphitheatre to sing their hearts out in front of a lively crowd of locals and visitors.
3. The bear is the symbol of Berlin and can be found in various forms throughout the city. The Berlin Bear represents strength, resilience, and the city’s history.
4. East Berlin has its own quirky pedestrian traffic signal figures known as Ampelmännchen, invented by the German traffic psychologist Karl Peglau. These unique traffic lights depict a little green “walker” or red “stander” wearing a hat. The traffic-light men are iconic in the eastern part of the city and can be found in many souvenir shops.

Beneath Berlin’s bustling streets, you’ll find an intricate network of secret underground tunnels and bunkers dating from WWII. Some of these tunnels have been repurposed into unique spaces, including nightclubs and art galleries, giving you an opportunity to explore the city’s hidden depths

Moving to Berlin as an expat opens doors to an incredible city with a vibrant cultural scene, exciting career prospects, and a welcoming international community. Remember, by taking care of the key points we’ve talked about, you’ll be fully prepared for a successful and fulfilling experience in the German capital. Embrace the unknown and make the most of everything that Berlin has to offer. Willkommen in Berlin! (Welcome to Berlin!) Get in touch with us for assistance with your move to Berlin.

To move to Oman from the UK you will need a visa. There are many different visas available, depending on the duration of your stay in Oman and the purpose of your visit. Short-term visas, suitable for business trips or tourism, are unsponsored, but if you’re planning on staying for an extended period – to work, live or invest – you will need to prove you are being sponsored by a private Omani organisation or individual as part of your application.

It’s important that you familiarise yourself with all your options before deciding which visa is right for you.

Finding Work as An Expat in Oman

With a rapidly developing economy and booming tourism, oil and gas, and industrial manufacturing industries, it’s easy to see why Oman is an attractive option for many expats. However, finding a job once you’re already there can be challenging, particularly without contacts or prior Omani work experience.

The best way to get a job in Oman is to secure one before you land. And there are plenty of jobs choose from, especially in the medical, IT and engineering sectors.

To work in Oman, you will need a work visa. To be eligible to apply for one, you must be between 21 and 60-years-old and a foreign citizen with a confirmed employment offer from an Omani company who will act as your sponsor. Keep in mind that work permits are only valid for two years and renewing them requires additional paperwork and therefore some considerable forward planning.

The average salary in Oman is 1,770 OMR (£3779,27) per month; however, salaries vary drastically between different sectors (2023). To get an idea, the conversion rate of GBP to the Oman Rial is £1 equivalent to 0,47 ﷼.

The standard work week consists of 8 hours per day, or 48 hours per week, Sunday through Thursday. Employees are entitled to a minimum of 12 days of paid annual leave each year, regardless of their salary or position. However, the number of paid annual leave days may be higher depending on certain factors, like how long you have been with your employer.

Cost of Living in Oman

The cost of living in Oman is relatively low compared to the UK; however, it can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. Basic expenses such as groceries, housing, and transportation are significantly cheaper in Oman, while luxury goods and services can be more expensive. The table below table shows a range of basic living costs and the UK comparison.

Expense	Oman Average (﷼)	Oman Average (£)	UK Average (£)
Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment	212 ﷼	£453	£900
Monthly rent for a three-bedroom home	398 ﷼	£850	£1,600
Nursery fees per month	73 ﷼	£155	£931
International school fees per year	2,518 ﷼	£5,384	£13,616
Monthly gym membership	19 ﷼	£40	£31
Monthly public transport pass	20 ﷼	£42	£65
Bottle of milk	0.71 ﷼	£1.52	£1
Loaf of bread	0.40 ﷼	£0.91	£1.02
Cup of coffee	1.79 ﷼	£4	£3
Meal for two	11 ﷼	£24	£55

Data sourced from Numbeo (2023)

Culture in Oman

Oman is country rich in heritage and Omani culture is as vibrant and contemporary as it is steeped in history. The country is strongly influenced by Islam, so it is important to respect local customs and traditions. This includes dressing conservatively, avoiding public displays of affection, and being mindful of local customs when visiting places of worship. Friday is the weekly day of prayer and is considered a day of rest.

The official language of Oman is Arabic. Though many people speak English as well, it’s useful to learn basic Arabic phrases, as this will show respect for the local culture and make communication easier. Oman has a number of flavourful dishes to try such as Mishkak, also known as a kabab.

Fun Fact: Dates are an integral part of Omani culture. They are a sign of hospitality and are served both as a welcome and after every meal. Oman has more than 250 indigenous varieties of dates, and is ranked among the top 10 date producers in the world (in 2021).

Education In Oman for Expat Families

There are several international schools in Oman, with the majority being in Muscat. Some of the most well-known international schools following the UK National Curriculum include:

The British School Muscat

The British School Muscat is the leading British school in Oman. It is the only non-profit British school in Muscat providing excellent quality education to children aged 3-18 and has been in existence for more than 50 years (in 2023). They offer an extensive variety of extracurricular activities allowing learners to pursue and explore their individual interests and talents.

The Al Shomoukh International School

The Al Shomoukh International School is a reputable co-educational school with English as the language of instruction. However, there are additional language classes offered by the school in Arabic, and French. Children between the ages of 3 and 18 can attend. The school offers dedicated programmes for both students with special learning needs as well as gifted, able, and talented students.

The Cheltenham Muscat

The Cheltenham Muscat is a premium British school for girls and boys aged 3 to 18. It was founded by Cheltenham College, one of the UK’s finest schools. The school offers a blended in-school teaching approach with an innovative virtual-learning platform. A distinctive feature of the school is that specialist teaching is available for all subjects and for students of all ages starting from Grade 4.

Healthcare in Oman

Oman has a high-quality healthcare system that provides a range of services to both citizens and foreign visitors. It is one of only a few countries in the Middle East where primary public health care is free for everyone, though expatriates typically seek medical care in private clinics and hospitals.

Private facilities can be expensive but often provide high-quality care and have shorter waiting times than public institutions. It is important to have comprehensive health insurance for non-essential treatments and medications.

There are several companies offering health insurance policies tailored towards expats. When looking for a suitable insurance plan, make sure it covers a range of healthcare needs, including optical and dental, mental health, and emergency care.

In Conclusion

Moving from the UK to Oman can be an exciting adventure! However, it pays to do your homework first. By making sure that your visa and job are taken care of before you arrive, you make it easier for yourself to find your feet abroad.

Speak to AGS Movers UK if you need help moving to Oman. Our skilled and versatile team can provide you with a customised moving experience that will guide you through each step of your relocation.

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The Central Plateau, known for its plains, rolling hills, and large lakes, is the most populous region, comprising 31% of the country. The south is dominated by the imposing Swiss Alps, while the north is home to the Jura, a sub-alpine mountain range that spans 11% of the country. Across these distinct regions, you will find four national languages: French, German, Italian, and Rumantsch.

Switzerland boasts a prosperous and modern market economy, with among the highest standards of living in the world. This is evident in the high GDP per capita, exceptional healthcare, and an effective social security system that ensures nobody is left behind. In addition, Switzerland offers high-paying jobs, efficient public transport, and a remarkably clean and safe environment. However, living there can be expensive, and certain costs may come as a surprise.

Top Five Swiss Cities to Live In

Geneva

French-speaking Geneva is the second-largest city in Switzerland, with close cultural and geographic ties to France. It is a financial hub and the European headquarters of several multinational organisations such as the United Nations and the World Health Organisation. Home to a vast number of international companies in various industries, there are also a variety of jobs in Geneva. The city has 18 international schools, of which 17 have English as the language of instruction (2023). These include the Institut International de Lancy, the International School of Geneva and Collège du Léman.

Living in this Swiss city is luxurious in every sense of the word, however, with the high standard of living comes a high cost. Considered pricey even by Swiss standards, the cost of living in Geneva is around 12% more expensive than London (2023). The following table compares basic costs between the two cities.

Accommodation	GENEVA	LONDON
One-bedroom Apartment	£1 778,69	£1 829,35
Three-bedroom Family Home	£3 781,45	£3 618,22
Transportation
Monthly Pass	£62,74	£153,00
Food
1 Litre Milk	£1,40	£1,12
1kg Chicken Fillets	£18,98	£6,69
McMeal from McDonalds	£13,44	£7,00
Lunch for 2 (3 Course, mid-range Restaurant)	£98,54	£65,00
Education
Kindergarten Per Year (Private)	£22 098,18	£18 401,88
Primary School Per Year (International)	£21 829,40	£17 933,33
Income
Average Monthly Salary After Tax	£5 027,97	£2 546,24

If Geneva is your city of choice, there are some administrative procedures you’ll be expected to complete when you arrive. You can find them here.

Fun Fact: The largest lake in Central Europe, Lake Geneva (also known as Lac Léman), fringes the city of Geneva.

Bern

If you’re looking for a new place to call home, Bern is another excellent candidate. This German-speaking city, the capital of Switzerland, has something for everyone, regardless of age or background. Although it’s 4.4% more expensive than London (2023), you’ll find its charm and amenities make it worth the cost. Bern is home to the national parliament and has an extensive public transport system and an abundance of job opportunities, attracting many foreigners, who account for more than 30% of the population. When you need a break, there are numerous cafes, museums, and scenic views to enjoy. Plus, Bern’s beautifully preserved old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, worth exploring again and again.

Fun Fact: Due to its numerous public fountains, Bern is commonly referred to as the “City of Fountains.”

Zürich

As Switzerland’s largest city, with an estimated population of 1.5 million (2023), Zurich is not only a cosmopolitan hub in the centre of this picturesque country, but also a globally ranked financial centre. And although the cost of living in Zürich is around 13% higher than in London, the city provides a high quality of living to justify the expense.

Swiss German is the local language, but English-speaking jobs are plentiful and those with Swiss employment contracts enjoy four to five weeks paid leave per year. Additionally, parents have many English-speaking international schools to choose from, including the Zurich International School, the International School of Central Switzerland, and the Inter-Community School, which offer education for children from ages 3-18. For outdoor lovers, the Swiss Alps are a short hour away, offering endless opportunities to experience nature.

Fun Fact: Zurich has been ranked as “the city with the best quality of life” for over fifteen consecutive years by Mercer.

Basel

Situated on the Swiss border with Germany and France, Basel provides easy access to best that all three countries have to offer. An ancient city full of historic buildings, art galleries and annual festivals, it is no surprise that young professionals from everywhere flock to this vibrant city with plentiful job opportunities. However, depending on your budget and lifestyle, the cost of living in Basel could be expensive – 5% more expensive than London (2023). International schools here are similarly costly – around £27000 per year (2023). Your options for English-speaking international schools in Basel include the SIS Swiss International School Basel, International School Basel and Academia International School Basel.

Fun Fact: Each February, Basel hosts one of Europe’s largest carnivals, Fasnacht, which celebrates Swiss culture with costumes, colourful parades, and music.

Lausanne

Located at the centre of western Europe is the French-speaking city of Lausanne. As the historic birthplace of the chocolate industry, it offers an astounding array of confectionary, enough to satisfy any sweet tooth. Lausanne is also the most affordable of the five cities featured in this article, only  4% more expensive than London (2023). A large student body gives this bustling metropolis an upbeat and youthful feel. However, Lausanne has so much more to offer than just universities. Residents have their pick of museums, cafés, and bars, while the 500m altitude provides breath-taking views of Lake Geneva and the distant Alps. Indeed, Lausanne provides the rare combination of modern amenities and old charm set against a spectacular backdrop.

Fun Fact: The Swiss Federal Supreme Court and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) are located in Lausanne.

If you need help moving to Switzerland, contact AGS Movers. Our team is experienced in every aspect of international moving, from packing to customs clearance, and can offer you a tailored and stress-free move.

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Dubai is the second largest city in the United Arab Emirates, with a population of 3.55 million (in 2023), of which 85% are expats. Most expatriates hail from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, however, the emirate is also home to around 240 000 British expats (in 2022).

Additionally, English is widely spoken in Dubai, so you don’t have to be fluent in Arabic to move around the city and mingle with people from all over the world.

Religion in Dubai

Islam is the official religion in Dubai, as designated by the constitution, and this plays a major role in the culture of the city. Non-Muslims enjoy religious freedom and are not expected to comply with Islamic tradition, although they are expected to respect it. Evangelising is prohibited in Dubai, as it is throughout the United Arab Emirates.

Friday is a holy day in the Islamic religion, meaning that working is forbidden. So instead of having your weekend on a Saturday and Sunday, it’ll be from a Friday to Saturday. It may take some time to adjust, but you’ll soon get in the swing of things.

During Ramadan – the holy month of fasting, prayer and introspection – the workday is shorted to six hours and both Muslims and non-Muslims are prohibited from eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours.

This is done out of respect for the Islamic practice, and anyone who does not comply could face prosecution. These rules do not apply to children and pregnant women, however.

Dubai’s Job Market & Digital Nomad Visa

The Dubai job market is extremely competitive. There are thousands of professionals pursuing their careers in the city, resulting in an excess of candidates, especially in the information technology, human resources, finance, and administration industries. This often means that candidates will accept lower salaries to secure employment.

As a British citizen, you don’t need a job to move to Dubai, as the city’s long-term multiple entry visit visa permits you to stay for a maximum of 90 days. If you do have a job, your employer will typically organise all the paperwork for your work permit and residency visa.

You can also apply for a digital nomad visa through the Remote Working Visa Scheme, which was introduced in Dubai in March 2021. This visa enables individuals of all nationalities to reside and work in Dubai, while having the same rights and privileges as residents. The visa is relatively simple to obtain, is valid for up to one year and has an annual renewal plan. However, to be eligible to apply, you must meet the following criteria:

• You have a valid passport with a minimum of six months validity.
• You have health insurance that is recognised in the UAE.
• For employees: proof of employment from a current employer by means of an employment contract that is valid for at least one month, a minimum of £3500 per month salary, last month’s payslip and bank statements for the three preceding months.
• For business owners:
  • Proof that you have owned the company for one year or more, with an average monthly income of £3500 per month or its equivalent in foreign currencies and bank statements for the
    three preceding months.
  • Proof of work/employment outside the UAE and that the work is conducted remotely.

• When applying for permits for family members, applicants must submit valid health insurance and a passport for each member.

The Cost of Living in Dubai vs UK

Although Dubai is an expensive city, the cost of living there is still 25% cheaper than in London, UK (in 2023). Accommodation, education, and transport are the biggest expenses you are likely to encounter.

It’s helpful that the United Arab Emirates do not levy income tax on individuals and sales tax is minimal, but living costs can add up and the advantageous tax environment means that many expats find themselves spending money on luxuries they wouldn’t have ordinarily splurged on at home.

Accommodation in Dubai

No matter your lifestyle or budget, you will be spoilt for choice when looking for a place to stay in Dubai. Apartments, condominiums and villas can be rented furnished or unfurnished, and there are many different payment options, including monthly, quarterly, semi-annually and more.

If you want to settle in the city permanently – or make an astute investment – buying property may be an attractive option. New arrivals tend to rent a serviced apartment short term while deciding on long-term accommodation.

You can expect to pay around £1230 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre, while a three-bedroom apartment goes for around £2300 per month (2023). Naturally, rents are cheaper on the outskirts, where one-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments are available for £790 and £1600 per month, respectively.

Start your search with these popular property websites: Bayut, Dubizzle or Property Finder.

English-Speaking Schools in Dubai

Dubai is home to a number of excellent schools, many of which follow the British and/or US curriculum, giving expatriates from the UK many alternatives. The Indian, Pakistani, German, French, and Australian schools follow the curriculum of their home countries.

You can find the most popular British schools in Dubai here.

Advantages to living in Dubai

Tax-Free Income
With no income tax and only 5% VAT on goods and services, Dubai provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy life, take a relaxing vacation every now and then, and boost your savings all at the same time. For many, this alone makes the city an excellent place to live and invest.

Low Crime Rate
The government of the United Arab Emirates actively invests in technology to keep Dubai residents safe. Together with strict laws and a respected justice system, this makes the city a safe environment where the elderly, women and children can walk about at night without concern.

Outstanding Healthcare
The exceptional healthcare available in Dubai provides even more reason for families to settle in this city. Residents can feel secure knowing that many healthcare facilities boast advanced resources and qualified medical staff from all over the world.

What To Do in Dubai

Your options are endless when looking for attractions to see and activities to do in Dubai. Below is a list of things that should without a doubt be on your bucket list:

• Cruise along The Dubai Fountain
• Have sundowners in the Burj Khalifa
• Tackle the slopes and make penguin friends at Ski Dubai
• Swim with sharks at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
• Watch camels race with robot jockeys at Al Marmoom
• Have a taste of adventure on a Dubai Red Dune Desert Safari

Rules to Follow

To ensure that your time in Dubai is safe and pleasant, it’s important to be thoroughly familiar with local regulations and customs. Below are some of the laws you are likely to encounter in daily life:

• Cybercrime laws forbid taking photographs of people without their consent. You may also not photograph car accidents, aeroplanes, embassies, government buildings and military installations.
• Eating and drinking on any form of public transport and in public transport stations is prohibited.
• According to public decency laws, it is a crime to display public affection. Even kissing in a public place may lead to imprisonment.
• You must have an alcohol license to consume, store or transport alcohol. Being drunk and disorderly or drinking in public is a punishable offence.
• Cursing in public is punishable by up to a year in prison and a hefty fine. Flashing your middle finger will result in deportation.
• Dress codes vary from one location to another, but the general rule is to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders, knees and arms.

What’s the verdict?

Dubai is a futuristic city that offers its residents the chance at an unprecedented lifestyle. But there is no doubt that, as a destination, it is a personal choice. You may love it or hate it, but one thing is certain, you will save a of money on taxes and perhaps even build more wealth than you ever would have back home!

For assistance with your move to Dubai, contact AGS Movers. Our team is ready to help!

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