FEBRUARY 2025: The Key Changes in Germany
Germany is already well into February, and several significant changes are taking shape across the country. From elections to property tax updates, here’s what’s happening this month.
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New Property Tax Bills Rolling Out
The property tax reform that took effect in January is now being felt by homeowners across Germany. Many have already received their new assessment rates from local municipalities, though some in Hamburg and Bonn are still waiting—likely until March. While a few might see reductions, many homeowners face an increase of up to €1,000 per year. Renters should also be aware, as landlords can legally pass these costs on through additional charges.
Lower Tariffs for Solar Panel Owners
Since February 1, the compensation for feeding solar-generated electricity into the grid has decreased by 1%. This marks the beginning of a policy where the feed-in tariff will continue to drop every six months. Anyone installing solar panels after this date will receive slightly lower payments for their contributions to the grid.
Stricter AI Regulations in Effect
Since February 2, the EU's Artificial Intelligence Act has imposed new restrictions on AI applications considered risky. This includes bans on biometric categorization based on sensitive characteristics and the untargeted scraping of facial images for database creation. The law is meant to protect individuals' rights and regulate AI use more strictly across Europe.
HDTV Subscription Prices Have Increased
For those with high-definition TV subscriptions in Germany, the higher fees have already kicked in. Since early February, HD Plus subscriptions and similar services have become about 15% more expensive.
Transport Strikes Still Possible in Berlin
Following the 24-hour strike by Berlin’s public transport workers on January 27, the risk of further strikes remains. As of now, negotiations between the BVG workers' union and employers are ongoing, meaning Berlin commuters should stay alert for possible disruptions in the coming weeks.
Germany Heads to the Polls Soon
Germany’s highly anticipated national elections are now just two weeks away, set for February 23. The latest polls continue to show the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leading with around 30-32% of the vote, followed by the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) at 18-21%, the Social Democrats (SPD) at 15-19%, and the Greens at 13-15%. Coalition negotiations will likely take weeks or even months, so expect a politically charged atmosphere for some time.
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Bundestag to Shrink by 100 Seats
This election will also mark the first time Germany’s parliament, the Bundestag, operates under new rules limiting its size. The number of seats will be reduced from 736 to 630, as the system of “overhang” and “balance” seats has been abolished. The reform aims to streamline government operations and cut costs.
Carnival Festivities Are Around the Corner
Germany’s famous Karneval celebrations are ramping up, with the main events set to begin on February 27 and peak on Rosenmontag (March 3). Expect wild costumes, street parades, and political satire—especially in the Rhineland, where the celebrations are most vibrant.
Pay Raise for Public Sector Employees
Public sector workers have already started receiving their 5.5% pay increase, which took effect on February 1 as part of a wage agreement reached in December. This raise is part of broader efforts to improve working conditions and help offset rising living costs.
Shorter Work Month in 2025
Since this year is not a leap year, February only has 28 days—meaning slightly fewer working days compared to 2024. While it’s a small difference, some employees might notice minor changes in their payroll calculations.
Germany’s Next Topmodel Is Back—Twice a Week
Heidi Klum’s Germany’s Next Topmodel returned on February 13 for its 20th season, with a new twist: this year, the show airs twice a week, featuring male contestants on Tuesdays and female contestants on Thursdays.
With elections, economic shifts, and major cultural events, February remains an eventful month in Germany. Keep an eye out for further updates as the month progresses!
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