EXPAT EXPERIENCES IN NEUSS
When life turns upside down, it seems at times necessary for expats to stumble through life’s situations. Either by design or lack of better options. Your publisher has lived through a few classic expat experiences in various international locations.
The reason why of the Amazing Capitals Neuss eGuide is three-fold. To introduce the new location, to reveal great things to do in Neuss and to use knowledge to help guide newcomers around a few of the pitfalls of entering expat life in their new city.
GET REGISTERED
Germans take registration very seriously. The law in Düsseldorf entails registering within one week of a move. If renting, the landlord can be required to confirm occupancy. Leaving for a new location means de-registering.
When we moved, I gave not one single thought to what Germany considers to be the the primary activity entailed in a change of residency. A letter arrived.
FINANCIAL TRAP
My employers wished to know which church I belonged to. I enquired what business it was of theirs and why they were asking. To pay tax to either the Protestant or Catholic church, I’m told.
The vast majority of funds are transferred directly from source and each company is responsible to declare where those monies go. I stated that I am not prepared to pay church tax and so I was duly told the atheist box would be ticked. I protested.
FORGETFUL RESIDENT
Foreign residents are required to ensure they stick to the rules with their papers in good order. Identification should also be carried on their person at all times in Germany.
I was born in a country that was and, at the time of writing, still is a member of a marvellous political and economic alliance known as the European Union or EU. When I decided to work permanently in Germany, I was issued with a permit of residency valid for five years.
LUCKY TRANSLATION
It was after work one late afternoon. The weather was marvellous. I was cycling to swim in the outdoor pool in Lörick. Since I lived in Oberkassel, my route took me along a scenic pathway that provided a view of the river Rhine.
The cycle path was the width of only two bikes. I was one of them. As they neared, the eyes of one cyclist widened at an impending danger. The other’s didn’t. He continued daydreaming.
One of the three oldest Roman settlements in Germany reveals a story covering over 2,000 years. Progressive developments include Napoleonic rule and that of Prussia before becoming part of North-Rhine Westphalia.
