Notes on the tricky topic of integration, feeling overwhelmed by paperwork and trying to enjoy German life. Plus a recommendation for strong coffee in Berlin.
Very nice piece! I also don't have a burning desire right now to get a German passport (or printer) :D. Outside of not being able to vote, permanent residency holders here seem to have most of the same rights as citizens, so I don't blame you for not wanting the extra paperwork atm.
Enjoyed reading your bureaucratic adventures. As a Belgian, I can only nod without saying a word when talking about bureaucracy. I had a feeling when moving to Berlin that it would not be a lot better than Belgium and quite frankly, it scares me a lot. I am looking into being a digital nomad with the least paperwork, bureaucracy and any other games to play that the matrix has ready for us. The invention level of new games for us to play is admirable.
1.) Hoooow did you get into an FC Union game? I’ve only been able to go to Hertha on account of their massive stadium. (Plus a group of international supporters were nice enough to invite me out, so that was a bonus!)
2.) Strangely, getting German citizenship (for me!) was the less bureaucratic thing I’ve ever had to do in this country. I was able to apply online –– and that was that. No printed documents, bupkis. It was like at the end of a video game where, sometimes, after fighting the final battle, there’s a cinematic finish where you just press a few buttons. EU permanent residency was my true final battle.
Very nice piece! I also don't have a burning desire right now to get a German passport (or printer) :D. Outside of not being able to vote, permanent residency holders here seem to have most of the same rights as citizens, so I don't blame you for not wanting the extra paperwork atm.
Are you at the Kopie shop a lot too? 😅
Too much around tax time 😅
Enjoyed reading your bureaucratic adventures. As a Belgian, I can only nod without saying a word when talking about bureaucracy. I had a feeling when moving to Berlin that it would not be a lot better than Belgium and quite frankly, it scares me a lot. I am looking into being a digital nomad with the least paperwork, bureaucracy and any other games to play that the matrix has ready for us. The invention level of new games for us to play is admirable.
So true. They make us sweat 😅
Look forward to sharing a pint at the Union Berlin game.
1.) Hoooow did you get into an FC Union game? I’ve only been able to go to Hertha on account of their massive stadium. (Plus a group of international supporters were nice enough to invite me out, so that was a bonus!)
2.) Strangely, getting German citizenship (for me!) was the less bureaucratic thing I’ve ever had to do in this country. I was able to apply online –– and that was that. No printed documents, bupkis. It was like at the end of a video game where, sometimes, after fighting the final battle, there’s a cinematic finish where you just press a few buttons. EU permanent residency was my true final battle.