AUGUST 2024: The Key Changes in Germany
As summer begins to fade, Germany is introducing a series of changes that will affect various aspects of life, from postal services to driving regulations. Here’s what you need to know about the major updates coming into effect this August.
✨IWB is an independent project and we need your support to keep running!✨
Support our work and get benefits back:
Formal Recognition of Professional Experience
Since August 1st, Germany has been making it easier for individuals without formal qualifications to have their work experience recognized as valid qualifications. Under the new Vocational Validation and Digitalisation Act, anyone with relevant professional experience equivalent to 1.5 times the length of formal training (e.g., 4.5 years for a three-year degree) and who is at least 25 years old, can now apply for this validation. The process will become widely accessible in January 2025.
Train Route Disruptions in Northern Germany
Starting August 16th, travel times between Hamburg and Berlin will be extended by 45 minutes due to construction-related diversions. The ICE train will take approximately 2.5 hours for this journey, with only one train per hour operating between the two cities. Night trains to Paris and Brussels will also be affected, with cancellations from August 12th to October 25th.
New Cannabis Regulations for Drivers
Beginning this month, new rules for drivers regarding cannabis consumption are being enforced. Authorities are now entitled to test drivers for THC levels in their bloodstream, with a limit set at 3.5 nanograms per milliliter. Exceeding this limit could result in fines up to €3,000. For new and young drivers under 21, any THC level is strictly prohibited.
Slower Postal Deliveries
As of August 1st, the Postal Modernisation Act has changed delivery times for letters within Germany. Now, letters may take up to three working days to reach their destination instead of two. This change is part of a broader effort to allow more competition in the parcel delivery market while ensuring compliance with German labor laws.
Expanded Access to Vocational Training
The new apprenticeship guarantee has been in effect since August 1st, ensuring that more young people, including those with learning disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds, have the right to state-supported vocational training. Employers are also receiving a larger bonus of €3,000 for successfully transitioning trainees into company-based training.
Increased Student Grants
Students receiving BAföG, Germany’s financial aid scheme, have seen an increase in their monthly allowances starting August 1st. The basic allowance has risen to €475, and the housing allowance has increased to €380. Additional grants and an extended flexibility semester are also being introduced to support students facing financial hardships.
Store Closures at Galeria
On August 31st, nine branches of Galeria Kaufhof will close as part of ongoing insolvency proceedings, impacting around 1,400 employees. This marks the latest in a series of challenges faced by the department store chain.
Higher Wages for Apprentices
Apprentices in the painting, varnishing, and stonemasonry trades have started receiving wage increases this August. For example, first-year stonemasons are now earning €925 per month, reflecting the growing recognition of skilled trades in Germany.
Simplified Gender Self-Recognition
Since August 1st, the new Self-Determination Act has simplified the process for individuals to change their gender entry and first name in official records. The requirement for medical certificates or court orders has been removed, making the process more accessible.
Subsidies for Green Energy Systems
As part of the government’s Heating Bill, subsidies for eco-friendly heating systems have been available since August. Homeowners can now apply for funding to cover up to 70% of the costs of new heating systems, with additional subsidies available for solar energy installations.
Local Authorities Gain More Control Over Speed Limits
Local governments now have greater autonomy to impose speed limits, particularly in areas around schools and playgrounds. This change reflects a shift towards prioritizing health and environmental concerns in urban planning.
✨IWB is an independent project and we need your support to keep running!✨
Support our work and get benefits back:
Important Events in Berlin in August 2024
Here are some of the major events happening in Berlin throughout August:
August 7-18: Berlin Circus Festival
August 8-11: Festival: 100 Years of S-Bahn
August 9-25: Young Euro Classic
August 10: LesBiSchwules Parkfest
August 12: Sternschnuppennacht (Shooting Star Night)
August 15-31: Tanz im August (Dance in August)
August 17: Rave The Planet
August 17: Britzer Gartennacht
August 24: Lange Nacht der Museen (Long Night of Museums)
August 28-30: Pop-Kultur
August 31: Zug der Liebe (Train of Love)
Food Events in Summer
August 10-11: Berlin Ice Cream Festival
August 17-18: Pistachio Street Food Festival
August 30: Bite Club
August 31 - September 1: German Rum Festival
September 1: Vegan Sundays
September 7-8: Berlin Chili Fest
September 14-15: Kartoffelfest in Dahlem (Potato Festival)
September 16-22: TipBerlin Food Festival
September 21-22: Berlin Ramen Festival
These events offer a variety of cultural and culinary experiences, making Berlin a vibrant place to be this August. Whether you're interested in arts, food, or just exploring the city's diverse offerings, there's something for everyone. 💖
What do you think? We want to hear your opinion!
Be part of the conversation inside the IWB community. Share your opinions and check out the insights of other women in Berlin.
✨ Support International Women in Berlin✨
Help us empower women in Berlin! With every €1 donation, you say a heartfelt 'thank you' to our independent project dedicated to helping women thrive in Berlin. For €5 or €10, enjoy exclusive perks and access to IWB events. Your contribution is vital for us to continue creating a supportive community. 💌 Donate Now – Let's succeed together in Berlin!