You might have come across social media posts celebrating the arrival in Germany: “Alhamdulillah, Visa Received!” or “Reached in Deutschland safely!” However, there’s another side to this story. Some individuals leave Germany for their home countries within just six months of arriving, and this experience is seldom discussed. In this blog post, we’ll explore why some newcomers decide to return home early and the challenges they face.
My Personal Experience
Not long ago, I was chatting with a friend who shared that two Pakistani students left Germany just two months after their arrival. This conversation reminded me of my own experience from about 18 months ago when I first moved to Germany.
I was in temporary accommodation, searching for something more permanent. During this search, I met a fellow student named Ehtisham. He informed me that he was shifting back to Pakistan after just three months in Germany. This left me puzzled; after all the effort it took to arrive in Germany, why would someone leave so soon?
At that time, I perceived Ehtisham as incapable. How could he leave after all the hard work of obtaining a visa and making the move? However, my perspective shifted when I found myself calculating how much money I would waste if I decided to return home just two and a half months after my arrival.
Reasons for Early Departure
1. Language Barrier
One of the primary reasons many people struggle in Germany is the language barrier. Despite being in a country where they might possess education, skills, and experience, if they don’t know German, their abilities can become irrelevant. Imagine trying to communicate in a remote village where no one speaks your language; similarly, in Germany, the lack of language skills can hinder job opportunities.
While IT might present fewer barriers in terms of language, most other fields require at least a basic understanding of German. If you’re not from the IT sector and are considering whether to move to Germany or Australia, I recommend choosing Australia if you can. However, if your circumstances lead you to Germany, be prepared for the challenge of learning the language.
Tip: Start using language learning apps like Duolingo. Instead of getting lost in social media, focus on building your German skills.
2. Job and Accommodation Challenges
The connection between job availability and accommodation can be a tricky one. In smaller cities, securing accommodation might be easier, but finding a job can be quite difficult. Conversely, in larger cities, while jobs might be more available, the struggle to find suitable accommodation intensifies.
When I first moved to Berlin, I changed my accommodation four times in just five months. This instability can be overwhelming, especially when coupled with job searching.
Advice: Before arriving in Germany, finalize your accommodation arrangements and actively engage with resources like LinkedIn to understand job opportunities.
3. Lack of Guidance
Many newcomers arrive in Germany without reaching out to those who have already settled in. They live in isolation and, when faced with challenges, often give up without seeking advice.
Connecting with seniors or fellow community members can provide invaluable support. If you find yourself contemplating leaving after a few months, seek guidance. Sometimes, just hearing that others have faced similar struggles can boost your morale.
4. Poor Planning
Arriving in Germany without a plan can lead to wasted time and missed opportunities. It’s essential to outline what you want to achieve during your time in Germany, whether that involves learning the language, pursuing studies, or securing a job.
Planning Tips:
- Long-Term Goals: Define what you want to accomplish in Germany.
- Short-Term Actions: Break down these goals into weekly or daily tasks. I personally rely on a calendar to organize my schedule and manage my time effectively.
5. Time Management
Effective time management is critical for success in a new country. Without a plan, it’s easy to lose track of time scrolling through social media or procrastinating.
By intentionally organizing your time and sticking to a schedule, you can maximize productivity and ensure you’re making progress toward your goals.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading! If you’re currently in Germany and feeling overwhelmed, or if you’re planning to move and have questions, I offer free 15-minute coffee chats. It’s a chance to discuss your concerns, gain insights, and hopefully, boost your motivation.
Moving to a new country is no small feat, but with the right mindset, planning, and support, you can navigate the challenges and make the most of your experience in Germany.