PhD Handbook

26 5.5 COSTS OF LIVING Like in most countries, the cost of living is very dependent on the city or suburb in which you live. Rent is particularly expen- sive in larger cities such as Munich and Hamburg and typically cheaper in smaller cities, or further from the city center. But it is important to balance out the cost of commuting long distances when considering where to rent. To get an idea about regional differences and what normal items you might buy cost e.g. at the supermarket in Germa- ny, take a look at this website ‘How much does it cost to live in Germany?’ (https://www.study-in.de/en/plan-your-stay/ money-and-costs/cost-of-living_28220.php) Water, heating and electricity costs are usually based on estimates (“Vorauszahlung”). At the end of the year, the diffe- rence is calculated and either you receive a refund, or you will have to pay. Most cities and towns have well-developed cycle networks which are begging for you to use them – it is one effective way to save on transport costs! 5.6 OWNING A DOG IN GERMANY If you own a dog in Germany, you have to pay dog tax and register the dog in the registration office (“Bürgeramt”). Also consider getting a third party liability insurance policy to cover any incidents with your beloved pet. Your liability insurance (“Haftpflichtversicherung”) policy may already cover pets. 5.7 RELIGION (SEPARATION OF STATE AND RELIGION) Germany guarantees freedom of religion and the possibility to practice one’s religion and beliefs. This leads to 32% to 37% of Germany’s population officially not belonging to any church. Around 30% are Catholic, 30% Protestant, 2% - 5% Muslim, the rest Buddhist, Jewish, and other religions. Although government and church are separated, the German tax bureau collects taxes for the Catholic and Protestant chur- ches from their members (cf. Chapter 4.2). 5.8 BANKING If you earn wages or salary, this will be deposited directly into a German bank account, so it is important to set this up as soon as possible after you arrive. There are many different banks to choose from in Germany and each offers a variety of accounts. Some have special deals for students while others offer fee-free accounts or a cash bonus when you join. Do some research, as some have charges or restrictions, such as accounts only available through online banking and the internet. Some banks even offer online banking in different languages such as English. Banks are generally open between 8.30 am and 4 pm from Monday to Friday. Choose a branch close to you as changes to your account can only be done by this particular branch. EC cards are for use in electronic transactions in the shops, or at ATMs (bank automats/cash machines) which are available 24 hours a day. There are usually (not unsubstantial!) fees to withdraw cash from ATMs from banks other than your own, even within Germany. One exception is the “Cash Group” where customers of particular banks (i.e. Deutsche Bank, Commerz- JUN HELMHOLTZ JUNIORS l 5 FURTHER INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL PHD STUDENTS - SETTLING INTO YOUR LIFE IN GERMANY

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