Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I get my permanent resident card — or visa or whatever — so I can actually live in Germany? (Like, for realsies.)

If you’re lucky enough to have a German spouse — or you’re about to have one — check out the blog post I wrote specifically about this subject: How to Become A Permanent Resident of Germany: 6 Tips for American Citizens with German Spouses.

If you’re moving to Germany and you’re worried about changing your initial tourist visa, attaining your residence permit or passing the B1 German Integration test, watch this video I made about it: Moving to Germany: Residence Permits, the B1 Language Exam, Life as an Expat and More…

I also wrote about the realities living in Germany in my post, Just Kill Me Now: A Brief Overview of Jobs, Taxes and Health Insurance for Expats in Germany. (NOTE: Most of these same guidelines apply for everyone, not just US citizens.)

If you don’t have a German spouse, check out:

• The German Way & More: Getting a Residence Permit for Germany
• Expatica: Moving to Germany: Guide to German Visas and Permits
• For American Citizens: How to Obtain a German Residence and Work Permit
• For Non-US Citizens: 500+ Foreign Embassies and Consulates in Germany

Do you have any other tips for future expats moving to Germany?

Sure! Let’s say you were moving specifically to Hannover, Germany. I would recommend you check out 3 things: the city’s website, the local InterNations chapter, and the local English-speaking group. For Hannover, that would be:

1. http://www.hannover.de/
2. http://www.internations.org/hannover-expats
3. http://hannover4englishspeakers.de/

… however, you can find similar resources for just about any major German city. In fact, places like Munich, Hamburg or Berlin are all lousy with expat communities who can better answer your specific questions. But for a general overview, watch this video I made: Moving to Germany: Residence Permits, the B1 Language Exam, Life as an Expat and More…

What about finding a job, paying taxes and choosing the right healthcare plan in Germany?

Check out my blog post on this one: Just Kill Me Now: A Brief Overview of Jobs, Taxes and Health Insurance for Expats in Germany

What is a “Merkel Diamond?”

The “Merkel Diamond” (“Merkel-Raute,” in German) is a hand gesture made by resting one’s hands in front of the stomach with the thumbs and fingertips touching in the shape of a rhombus. It is the famous signature gesture of the Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel. I use the Merkel Diamond (AKA: “The Triangle of Awesomeness”) to rate things — movies, TV shows, food, beverages and even personal experiences — on a highly sarcastic, 1-5 scale of quality.

What is “Denglish?”

Denglish is the accidental combination of Deutsch (German) and English words. This term can also be applied to those glorious mishaps occurring when expressions from one of these languages is translated directly to the other without benefit of cultural context. I also use it to label pretty much anything funny or weird my wife says. (She’s fluent in Denglish.)

What is a “Gymnasium?”

A Gymnasium is a type of school in Germany providing advanced secondary education from 5th grade through 12th, though some states require an additional 13th grade before graduation. The primary focus for Gymnasium students is achieving the Abitur. The Abitur is kind of like a diploma, only it requires a series of insanely hard exams and serves as the main criteria for college admissions. Basically, without it, you don’t get to go to college. The Gymnasium system is hardcore, with high expectations and even higher stress levels, which is why it’s so good at weeding out the weakest students and retaining only the best and brightest nerds in the country.

What is “Culture Shock?”

Culture shock is a feeling of disorientation experienced by someone who is suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture, way of life, language or set of attitudes. Posts in this category describe my new and often painful experiences functioning in Germany. (I am the poster child for culture shock.)

What’s the deal with your German wife?

On a daily basis, my wife rattles off some of the funniest shit I’ve ever heard in my life. Sometimes the things she says are funny because she’s German (and Germans are hilarious), but most of the time they’re funny because she’s a huge dork and can’t help but act dorkishly. This is why I often use the term “Denglish” to title posts in which I quote something she has said, even though the term is being applied loosely at best.

Will you ever post pictures of you or your wife?

Haw haw! …No. Just imagine Shannon Elizabeth from American Pie (minus the fake hooters), married to that kid Taylor Ball from Still Standing.

Can you speak German?

Ich lerne momentan Deutsch. First, I ordered a book called German Phrases for Dummies, took a beginning German class at Portland Community College, then purchased Mango Passport German for my computer. I also completed the mandatory integration classes (A1, A2 and B1) and passed the B1 Integration Exam here in Germany. I took a B2 class just for shits and giggles, found a couple of native German speakers to be my language tandem partners, and I try to stay sharp with the very fun and completely awesome app, Duolingo. So right now, I’d say I can speak German about as well as a preschooler with a learning disability. But, if you absolutely insist upon hearing me speak the Devil’s tongue, check out this video I made: Speaking German with an American Accent (and a Vicious Cold)

Why are you such a dick to your German wife?

There’s being a dick, and then there’s being a dick. I make sarcastic observations about our cultural and linguistic differences because they make her laugh, and although I maintain this blog for the benefit of all humankind, really, I write it just for her.

Why is your website titled “Oh God, My Wife Is German,” and not “Oh My God, My Wife Is German?”

Because the expression “oh my god” sounds more like surprise to me. I wanted the tone to be something closer to grim resignation. :)

Do you accept guest articles on your blog?

Yes. Please take a look at the guidelines on our Guests page.

Do you feature advertisements on your blog?

Yes. You can read more about this in our Advertising section.

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— OGM