Moving to a new country is exciting—but making friends can feel daunting, especially in Germany. Many newcomers find it harder than expected to build a social circle here. Drawing from experiences shared by Germans and expatriates alike, this guide gives actionable steps to help you form meaningful connections.
Join a Verein (club)
Germany is famous for its Vereine—clubs or hobby groups that bring people together around shared interests. Whether it’s sports, board games, cooking, or gardening, there’s likely a club for it near you.
Why it works:
- People already share your interests.
- Clubs provide a structured, welcoming environment.
- Regular meetups help friendships develop over time.
Tips:
- Commit to a regular activity, like a weekly session.
- Learn some German—it makes interactions smoother.
- Don’t expect instant deep friendships; it takes time.
Prepare for the Einbürgerungstest alongside your social life
While you settle in, you may also be preparing for the citizenship test. Useful habits include:
- Taking mock exams under timed conditions to simulate the real test.
- Focusing on topics like German history, law, democracy, and culture.
- Using our app to practice in your preferred language, then reviewing in German.
With consistent practice, you can approach the test with confidence. Good luck!