MAY 2024: The Key Changes in Germany
In May 2024, people in Germany will encounter several new changes affecting travel, employment, public transport, and documentation. From an increase in flight taxes to wage hikes in nursing care and the enforcement of cross-border speeding fines, there's a lot to keep in mind. We've compiled this guide to ensure you're prepared for the upcoming shifts in policy and practice.
Plane Ticket Tax Increase: The Luftverkehrsabgabe (aviation tax) will rise from May 1, increasing flight ticket prices. For flights within Germany and to other EU member states, the tax will increase to €15.53, up from €12.73. For long-haul flights over 6,000 km, the tax will be €70.83 per ticket, compared to the current €58.06. The German government aims to generate an additional €445 million in tax revenue with this increase, as part of efforts to cover a €17 billion deficit in the national budget following a ruling against the government's financial redistribution plans.
Deutsche Bahn Streckenagent App Removal: From May 2, Deutsche Bahn will remove its Streckenagent "route agent" app. Its features, which provide updates on train delays and cancellations, will be integrated into the DB Navigator app. Users of the Streckenagent app who have Deutschlandticket subscriptions will find their subscriptions automatically canceled on April 30. They must re-subscribe through the DB Navigator app to continue using the ticket.
Biodiesel Sales: Germany is introducing alternative, environmentally friendly biodiesels like XLT, HVO, and B10 at petrol stations starting in May. XLT, a synthetic biodiesel, and HVO (Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil), made from recycled cooking oils, offer reduced carbon emissions. HVO can cut emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional diesel. Drivers should research these fuels to ensure compatibility with their vehicles, given potential technical restrictions.
Nursing Home Staff Wage Increase: From May 1, employees in elderly and long-term care will receive higher wages. Unqualified caregivers will earn a minimum of €15.50 per hour, up from €14.15. Nursing assistants will be paid €16.50 per hour (previously €15.25), while professional nurses will also earn €16.50. The wage increase is a response to Germany's critical nursing staff shortage, with up to 690,000 additional caregivers needed by 2049.
E-Scooter Ban on BVG: Starting May 1, the Berlin public transport operator BVG will prohibit e-scooters on buses, trams, and U-Bahn trains due to safety concerns, primarily fire hazards. The ban does not include e-bikes, electric wheelchairs, or electric mobility scooters, nor does it apply to the S-Bahn, which is run separately by Deutsche Bahn. Other cities like Leipzig and Munich already enforce similar restrictions.
Swiss Speeding Tickets Enforceable in Germany: German drivers will no longer be able to avoid fines incurred in Switzerland for traffic violations. From May 1, German and Swiss authorities will enforce speeding fines across borders for offenses exceeding €70 (or 80 Swiss Francs). Given Switzerland's high fine structure, even minor violations can result in significant penalties.
Doctorate Titles on IDs: From May 1, doctorate titles will be removed from the primary pages of German IDs and passports. Instead, titles will be recorded on a separate page. Current documents with titles displayed will remain valid until they expire. The government made this decision after recognizing that doctorate titles on identification documents could lead to confusion for foreign border authorities.
Meta AI Content Policy: Starting in May, Meta will continue to display AI-generated content on its platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and Threads), labeling it with appropriate warnings. Only content determined to pose a "high risk of materially deceiving the public" will be removed. The change aims to increase transparency about AI-generated media while balancing the removal of misleading information.
May Public Holidays: Expats in Germany can enjoy several public holidays in May:
May 1 (May Day/Labour Day): Nationwide holiday celebrating workers.
May 9 (Ascension Day/Father's Day): National holiday with religious significance.
May 19 (Whitsunday): Observed only in Brandenburg.
May 20 (Whit Monday): Celebrated nationwide, following Whitsunday.
May 30 (Corpus Christi): Observed in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, and parts of Saxony and Thuringia.
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