NOVEMBER 2024: The Key Changes in Germany & Berlin
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1. ID Cards and Residence Permits Now Deliverable by Post
Starting today, residents in Germany can choose to receive ID cards and electronic residence permits by post, simply by paying a small fee for delivery. Previously, applicants had to collect these documents in person, requiring two trips to local offices. Although the legal framework is now in place, full implementation may take until early 2025. Additionally, the PIN letter needed to activate these documents can now be issued directly at in-person appointments, simplifying the process for those who still prefer to visit local offices.
2. Leadership Change in the Bundesrat
Also beginning today, Saarland’s State Premier, Anke Rehlinger (SPD), takes on the role of President of the Bundesrat, Germany’s upper house of parliament. Rehlinger succeeds Manuela Schwesig (SPD), the State Premier of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The Bundesrat, which represents the federal states, plays a crucial role in shaping and approving legislation that impacts state governments. This position places Rehlinger as the fourth highest-ranking official in Germany, after the Chancellor, the President, and the President of the Bundestag. Her leadership signifies Saarland’s increasing influence at a national level and showcases her commitment to representing regional concerns within federal decision-making.
3. Religious Holidays and Celebrations in November
November brings important religious holidays. Today, All Saints' Day (November 1) is observed, followed by All Souls' Day (November 2). Later, on St. Martin’s Day (November 11), children take to the streets with homemade lanterns to celebrate St. Martin’s spirit of generosity. For residents of Saxony, Buß- und Bettag (November 20) provides a day of prayer and reflection. November 17 marks Volkstrauertag (People’s Mourning Day), which commemorates war victims and victims of oppression, with some regions observing restrictions on public festivities.
4. Carnival Season Begins
On November 11 at precisely 11:11 AM, carnival season kicks off, especially in Cologne and Düsseldorf. In Düsseldorf, the iconic “Hoppeditz,” a fictional clown, is “awakened” as part of the celebrations. These festivities inject vibrant energy into the cities and continue all the way through Lent.
5. Self-Determination Act for Trans, Intersex, and Non-Binary People
Taking effect today, the Self-Determination Act allows trans, intersex, and non-binary individuals to change their legal name and gender through a simple signed declaration, removing the previous requirements for medical assessments or court approval. This landmark legislation simplifies the process for those who wish to align their documentation with their gender identity.
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6. Pay Raise for Public Bank Employees
Today also marks the beginning of a phased pay increase for about 60,000 public bank employees. The increase, totaling 11.5% over the next few months, was achieved through a recent agreement with the Verdi union and is seen as a well-earned recognition of these employees’ contributions.
7. Unlimited Cinema Subscription with Cinfinity
Later this month, the new Cinfinity app will launch, offering an unlimited cinema subscription for €12.50 per month, allowing users to visit any participating cinema across Germany, without being restricted to a specific chain. This flexible model offers movie fans affordable access to a wide range of films.
8. Drones to Help Protect Wildlife
New drone regulations effective today allow drones with thermal cameras to operate within 10 meters of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, helping farmers detect animals, like fawns, that often shelter in tall grass. This change aims to prevent accidental harm to wildlife during agricultural operations.
9. Business IDs for Small Business Owners
Beginning this month, self-employed individuals and small business owners will receive a business ID number(Wirtschaftsidentifikationsnummer) to simplify communication with the tax office. The ID rollout will take several years to reach all eligible individuals, and its use will not be required immediately.
10. Deadline for Car Insurance Switching
Car insurance policies that renew on January 1, 2025, have a November 30 deadline for switching providers. If current insurers notify customers of premium increases, there will be an extra month to cancel. The ADAC advises reviewing both coverage levels and pricing when making decisions.
11. Christmas Markets Opening
Some Christmas markets open today, including Potsdamer Platz in Berlin, while others will follow later in November. These markets are a holiday highlight, filled with festive decorations, crafts, traditional foods, and Glühwein (mulled wine).
12. Black Friday Sales
Black Friday arrives on November 29, with German retailers expected to offer significant discounts in various categories, from electronics to clothing. While not all deals are as attractive as they seem, many shoppers look forward to this day as an opportunity to find early holiday gifts and score seasonal savings.
13. Anniversary of the Fall of the Berlin Wall
On November 9, Germany will commemorate the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. This day marks a monumental moment in German history, symbolizing the end of the division between East and West Germany. Cities across Germany, especially Berlin, host events and exhibitions reflecting on the impact of this historic day, honoring those who contributed to the peaceful reunification of Germany.
These November changes reflect Germany’s drive to streamline processes, honor traditions, and enhance representation in government, as evidenced by Saarland’s new leadership role in the Bundesrat with Anke Rehlinger at the helm.
14. New Cannabis Regulation from Early November
As part of a newly implemented regulation, cannabis growers’ associations are now permitted to cultivate cannabis for collective, private use among members. The ordinance, in effect as of early November, allows each association up to 500 members, all of whom must be at least 18 years old and can only join one association at a time. Additionally, Berlin will limit the number of associations to one per 6,000 inhabitants, though actual numbers are expected to remain low. A detailed fines catalog has also been established, with penalties for public possession above 25 grams ranging from €250 to €1,000, while smoking near schools or similar facilities incurs fines of €300 to €1,000. These regulations are accompanied by regular inspections, ensuring adherence to membership and distribution rules for all licensed growers.
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