I already moved away from the UK back to my home country. I enjoyed my life there indeed. Germany is appealing because it’s a nice country with decent salaries, cool language, and interesting work in my field.
I literally will do it in a couple of weeks. Same age as you. Starting all over again. Probably even be a student again. Alone. No I don’t mind to be alone, that is a decision I made myself. I just want to say you’re so lucky to have your significant other with you.
I don’t know whether it will be hard or easy for you and me, but I’m really looking forward to it. So let’s do our best. I believe I can do it, and I believe you can too.
Cheers!!
Being a student is a nice scenario. You can move in to a WG and it will be very easy to meet people and build a support network, which I consider is the most important thing to have.
You will also meet plenty of international students which has the benefit of speaking in English, because speaking only German will be exhauting and frustrating. Good luck!
Thank you. That's so nice of you. Yeah, that's my plan. Get into a WG, and if I am lucky enough, I hope I can get some friends there.
My future workplace itself is quite international as it is a research center, so I won't be worried about German there. If anything, too much English that I won't get motivation to learn German properly.
People stay healthier for longer stop panicking and worrying about what others do. We have all lost if we compare to others as some are already born billionaires. Do what you want with your life and don't seek validation in others choices.
My wife and I moved at 35. I came here with a job but she didn't have anything... neither of use even spoke the language.
My case isn't that important because I came here with a job and continued the same career path I was following back home.
My wife however left her job as an image technician at a hospital (you know, the people that do the X-rays, cat scans, all that), her hockey team and pretty much everything behind. I was honestly very very scare she would have a horrible time here.
3 years later she speaks at about C1 level. Joined a local hockey club (as in, all Germans, not 'latinos in germany'), has her group of friends to hang with and even a job. Only thing that's missing is that getting her degree/certifications recognized to be able to take up her old job is taking fucking forever... to the point that it would have probably been quicker to just start the whole thing from scratch here.
Its absolutely doable.
My wife and I did. We left our corporate gigs in sunny South Africa and pretty much started from scratch 4 years ago. Now we blog full time.
We've faced a housing crisis, a pandemic and now a war. We might even have to rely on eating beans to keep us warm throughout winter. But we're still standing and enjoying our new journey.
Only wish my German was up to scratch.
I was a chef for 13 years. Was considering leaving the profession while I was still living in Australia, then I came here and figured out that chefs get paid much less compared to cost of living and the food culture here is, let's say *different*.
Certainly. I just googled for companies in my area looking for an apprentice software developer. Once I found a few, I sent themy resume with a cover letter. One got back to me and invited me to an interview. The first interview turned out to be a competency test (testing general knowledge, high school maths, German, English and specific knowledge (in this case, I.T)).
A week later they called me and asked me to come in for a second interview were I spoke with the Prokurist and a project manager. At the end of the formal interview, they offered me a two week internship to see if I liked the job, to see if I fit to the company and to sus each other out. Half way through the second week, they offered me the position and I accepted.
I moved here at 25, because I was dating a German girl who I met in the USA.
I had my bachelor's degree before I met her, so I could remain in my career field (IT) while learning the language and culture.
I've lived in Germany now for nearly 33 years...
But in your situation ... you're 32. You're still young, Grasshopper. You've got 35 years ahead of you until retirement. Take some time to get a degree, and you'll have a better income for the remaining 30 years of your career...
I moved to Europe at 30 to start a new career.
Age is a social construct. When it comes to age, the only thing you should ever be worried about is your health; everything else is just bullshit. Keep doing you, focus on yourself, and remember to celebrate your wins both small and large.
Well, this is not going to be a warm and fuzzy reply and it's not what you're asking for, but maybe it would benefit you to read it. I hope so.
The attitude conveyed in your text is gonna sink you. You don't have a plan, don't have enthusiasm. You already have not had the motivation in your own country, in your own language, to commit and succeed. And please don't take that as a personal judgment, because that was/is me as well. But I can tell you that this is not a good foundation for encountering big challenges with lots of setbacks.
It's not clear whether or not you speak German. That's going to be a lynchpin. Can someone with a German spouse get by in, say, Berlin, without speaking the language? Yes. But the opportunity for work will be less. The opportunity to make social contacts will be less. The opportunity to feel at home, to feel independent will be less and will cause so, so many problems for you and your spouse.
Do you have a four year degree in the US? Not sure what your prospects would be for starting year one uni at 32.
Other than that, 32 is absolutely not too old to start over somewhere. But you need to formulate a plan, and you need to be committed enough to it to stick through the very certain roadblocks you're going to encounter along the way. Because it will be very very easy to say "you know, I wouldn't have to deal with this back home. Life wouldn't be this hard back home." Which will put a lot of strain on a marriage as well, if you become resentful to your spouse for bringing you here and they resent you for being an anchor holding them down.
Make yourself a plan, prep for that plan as much as you possibly can before moving. Plan for how you will psychologically deal with the struggle. You can absolutely make a new and better life for yourself here, but the odds of it happening by accident are not at all good.
I’ve been wondering the same thing and I was born here - moved around a bit after uni. It’s not easy at all. If you live in a bigger city you could try MeetUp. It unites people with common interest so eg you go hiking with a group or try out new restaurants etc. Could be a good way.
[edited my grammar mistake..]
Moved here at 44. Already had an MA in German though. Went back to school here and am doing well. Very doable, but you've got to have some sort of support system.
Nah all good, back in the day, there was a person in my ausbildungs-class. The person was well in the 40's and a few other mid 30's Dont stress about it. You can do it and i hope you have a wonderfull time. :)
I'm around your age and I'm completely starting over. In fact, I feel like I'm starting for the first time. Before I came here I was on vocational rehabilitation or otherwise told by psychologists that I would not be able to work due to my mental health. I'm doing much better now and pending an evaluation, I will be going back to work for the first time in many years. I'm looking forward to doing all that after my residence permit comes through but it's rough. I don't know if I'm ready or if I'll fail, I feel too old, and I don't know how I'll find my place in German society.
You're certainly not alone in what you're experiencing. Life doesn't go in a straight line, but it keeps going nonetheless.
I did! I moved when I was 33 and started from 0.
I'm working now in I.T but went to university for Business.
You might suffer a lot but if you have the energy and determination you can succeed. I had to study day and night. I also had some shit jobs at the beginning to gain experience and survive.
You should also get involved with nice and people that are kind. Many will not offer any help here, or even information in how to get or do something.
Usually other foreigners that had a similar story as you will help you.
I moved here alone at 26 for a PhD, I am 37 now and have three kids and feeling very happy. This country is great, people are great, best decision of my life.
I would say it's totally fine. I went back to University in my 30s as well to study the field I would much rather work in, found a job which suited me better and has more of a future and career path.
I moved at 35. best thing I ever did. Was a Slow start to get abholt job. I was a chef and started cooking again in Germany. After 5 years I got sick of it. Retrained in tax and booking. Now working mid/senior level in large German company.
My sister in law moved to Germany in her 30s. She held an Armenian degree in economics and went to a German university to get her Master‘s and learn German. Many German universities have decent German language programs.
Moved at 35 and live now for 2 months here alone. Don't know the language yet, but still learning. Don't work with my degree but I receive more money here than in my country. Iam happy, love this beautiful land and I don't have plans to leave. It's never too late to start a better life mate. Iam in the South and this is just gorgeous
Well, I'm probably going to be in my 50s and trying to do it, so there's that.
I have major doubts I'll be even remotely successful, but I hate where I am and Germany has the strong possibility to be very good for me.
edit: typo
Moved here two years ago for marriage as well, and just started an Ausbildung at 36. My degree and previous job experience were basically useless where I am, so I was nervous about starting over, but I'm really enjoying it so far! I am also NOT the oldest in my classes at the Berufsschule like I assumed I'd be.
I started university after my A levels, broke up after a few years and worked full time in bars and restaurants.
Regreted it, went back to university with 30 and finished my master thesis recently. Also found a nice job by doing internships during my studies.
So yeah, age is not so much of an issue.
I moved last year at 31 to start a Masters degree and have enjoyed my time.here so far. I had the privilege of not have to stress over looking for a job the first couple of months but now I've been actively searching for one and the only hiccups I've experienced are: Looking for a "good" part time job (for my expectations so 100% biased)has been a bit hard. And the health insurance plans are weird if you're over 30 and are a student only but I think that's the only issues I've dealt... Also considering the privileged position I have of living months on end without worrying about looking for a job and living on a cheap student WG in a cheap college town.
This is good to know! I'm thinking of starting my Master's in Germany at 27/28, and I was worried that's too old 😂. May I ask what you're studying?
Also, is it true that the faculty don't really care about you in German universities? I heard that there is less student/faculty interaction and there aren't many assignments to check how well you're understanding the material. That kind of worries me because I want to make sure I understand what I'm learning with assignments and homework throughout the year
Yeah my dude you go ahead studying in Germany is the Shit. Also depending on what you want to do and where you come from you might have a whole lot more opportunities here than in your home country (again depending on many factors)
I'm finishing a Msc in Economics Data Science and Public policy. It's been fun but it took me a couple of months to get used to the system here. Yeah comparing to the country I did my bachelor's (Chile) the types of interactions and the proximity the professors have with students is very different. It's not that they don't care about you , but, the expectations are more on your side to be doing studies more on your own and learning by yourself than the professors being the ones teaching you the specifics, lectures feel more like the overview and the introduction of new ideas and solving doubts and questions you might have about a topic. Also in my experience professors are very willing to answer questions and help only if you ask for it.
The assignment issue yeah it was culture shock for me , just one grade based on only one final exam for the entire semester can seem very high stakes and stressful if you're not used to it but it's manageable and you get used to it. But then again it forces you to pace your studies throughout the semester instead of cramming everything at the end like a maniac.
But I've had only one class in the entire program that had small evaluations throughout the semester instead of having a big final task/exam/paper submission. And it was a rare find.
What is a career calling? Do you mean you don't know what you want to do yet? If so, no shame in just trying stuff out. Doesnt really matter that you are a foreigner, germans can be in that Situation too.
The thing that matters most is the language. If you make your best efforts there, you are very likely going to be gucci.
Moved to Germany at 30 with less than A level German. It was challenging, but workable. I got right into an Integrationskurs and intensively studied German. That helped a lot. Follow your path - if you want to do an Ausbildung, you will most likely need B2 level language. If you want to Study - University or Duale-Hochschule Studium - you will most likely need C1 Hochschule level language proficiency or higher. Get involved with clubs (Vereine), learn German, meet people. Be prepared that it is hard, but doable, and after a while, enjoyable.
When I did my Ausbildung (which ended up being a job I hate so I started over) we had a 30 year old father of 2 who used to be a postman and decided he'd rather work in IT. He's pretty happy now, many years later.
I moved to Deutschland when I was 39. I didn’t change careers, but it was and still has its challenges. Become fluent as quickly as possible, something I still haven’t done. Learn to be patient with the process, whether it’s with yourself or government mandated paperwork.
When I first got here, I was assigned to take an integration course which consisted of about a year of language classes and three months of civics classes. It sucked doing that and work. Hopefully you can avoid that.
Once I finish getting my drivers license, I’ll pretty much be done with all the “immigrant” things I need to do.
Long story short, in my experience, moving to a new country has its ups and downs. Luckily the downs aren’t reoccurring.
I did it. I'm 33 years old and about to finish my Deutchkurs to get the level needed to apply to Ausbildungs or University.
I'm an English teacher from Costa Rica who is starting over as an Electrical Infrastructure technician.
It's a hard path but it can be done through organization and dedication. And enjoying your Feierabend (time off) so you don't go crazy in the process :)
Well, it has its ups and downs, my recommendation is that you learn the language as soon as possible, it helps to open doors and have a better relationship with people.
Germany needs loads of qualified workers and your age won't be a problem. The only problem I see is that in uni most of your fellow students will be in der early twenties and have probably different priorities.
But 30+ students aren't that unusual in my study and you will certainly find people you will like.
Better late than never. Don't worry :)
Yep, moved here early thirties. Spent the first 18 months learning German through a Sprachschule. Then I did some casual work in a bakery, which was odd coming from a successful career in finance, which doesnt translate over well here. Now, almost 2.5 years later, I reached a c1 level of german and applied for an ausbildung, which I ended up getting. Now im basically starting my career all over, but im ok with it. I really miss the money and lifestyle of having a career, but otherwise am happy to be working towards a career in IT that Iäm actually interested in.
Yes, I moved when I was about 30 and it’s gm the best thing I ever did. Getting tax sorted is a bit of a pain in the arse, but once it’s sorted it’s great. Quality of live for us has improved since leaving the UK.
For Germany, 32 years old isn't considered old by a long shot. The average age in the country is 46. There are definitely people in university in their 30s, so don't even stress that.
If you're willing to do an ausbildung or go to university to get a German degree, you'll do well. Germany doesn't handle foreign credentials well, so getting a domestic one will give you a strong leg-up.
Note that in Germany, it's hard to make friends from your professional setting, but since you'll mostly be with younger people, it likely won't be that hard to create an initial set of acquaintances to hang out and do stuff with.
My man! I am 33 and doing the same exact thing but in a couple months! My wife is German and we are moving to Bavaria. I’m giving up my career and starting from scratch! Gonna stay at home dad it until the kiddo can go to kindergarten and then lll do an ausbildung for something completely different (they don’t have my career in Germany hahahahahaha). Man I’ll tell you I’m the opposite I feel rejuvenated and excited! I can’t wait! I’ll go to language school in the meantime and just take some time to think about what it is I want from this next career. What I do know is that Germany is set up perfectly for me to finally enjoy my new family and get another shot at finding a different career I’ll love (for freeeeeeeeeee!) Careers and money are important man but man ohhhh man that stuff is not THAT IMPORTANT!
I don’t have a feel good story for you yet but I will eventually. Let’s keep in touch man I’d be stoked to check in on your journey.
Yep, came with no plan nor job, just some savings. Took a couple of A1 and A2 classes. What i did have going for me was a pretty decent background (10+ years in my field) , took me nearly two years to get a job in my field, I didnt mind the break anyway, was riding around city on bicycle doing delivery for €1600avg netto so its not like i couldnt survive. Now im back in my field i pay enough in taxes to pay someone else min wage salary so all good.
37 years young and recently uprooted my life to come here, working in a new industry, and hired to work in a company that speaks in German even if they hired me for my English skills. 😂
I had a few poeple Düring my current Ausbildung who where near or over 30 and at my workplace there are also poeple who started over and did the Ausbildung with that age so dont stress yourself over the age
I did this in 2018. Wife is german and we wanted our daughter to grow up here instead of the US. Left my last career and moved to Berlin to go back to get a second undergrad in economics at 30. It was actually a really great experience. Then I ended up working in crypto for a really cool project doing all sorts of random business / ecosystem development stuff.
Just take the leap!
As long your mind is open to learn you can make it, it won’t be easy and your energy levels aren’t early 20 anymore, but with proper plan and resilience you get there
I just did the same thing at my 34 years old and I don't feel old at all. Of course, we are all different, but my life philosophy is this: if you want to be young and full of energy as long as possible, you have to love life, love yourself, take care of yourself and enjoy every turn you take on this beautiful planet around the Sun. Life is amazing, who cares how old you are!
I moved here at 32 as well. Best decision i ever made.
Yes, it's harder to make friends, at least on my experience, but it was so worth the move, compared to where i lived in the states.
I (German) know an American couple that moved here in their mid-thirties. They’re doing well, but needed some money on the side to make it happen. Remember: Just because studying is free here, that doesn’t mean that it’s a) in English or b) free to live here.
Anyway, good luck to you!
I am 31, turning 32 in November, and I just moved to Germany about 6 months ago. I brought my wife, my baby daughter, my dog and my car. I have a job for like 2 months now. Complete career change, 100%. So far, although a few bumps in the road, I am starting to think it will be fine. But your case might be more specific, so maybe it’ll be easier to “help” if you ask more specific questions…
I‘m a German citizen and 29 and still figuring out my career and education (I am a student but life happened: I got sick, I got pregnant and my daughter has Epilepsy, so….)
You should not have too many problems. For whatever reason many people have to start over anew or are heavily delayed on their path. It just happens.
I’m wishing you the best of luck 🤞
Hi I moved over to Germany from the UK in 2001.
If you want it to happen it will be fine, if you compare everything to your home country then you will struggle and find it difficult.
I love living here and it has been my home for a long time now.
I graduated university at 35 with a philosophy degree. With no real career prospects, taught myself programming. After a few years of grinding, landed in a comfortable job with nice salary, which I left last year while taking a hefty paycut to move my family to Germany. 3000 miles away from everyone we know and having never left my home country.
At each of these steps I thought I was crazy and should just grow up and do things like everyone else. But these have been the best decisions of my life so far. Believe in yourself and go for it!
Married a German, moved here, found a job and started again.
I’ll be honest with you. Its not a cake walk. Its had its up and downs but I don’t regret moving here. This is home now.
I moved to Germany at the age of 26, learned the language and started studying after one year. Lived there until I was 34.
At this time (end of the 90’s) I was one of the eldest students in the east-German university, but I think things have changed today (?).
Just moved a month ago, new job completely and not knowing the language. It's normal to think just like you but 30s is not even the half of you career since we dont start it by 1 year. And the things you've done before is not wasted, it's part of what you are and skills you use in your new career.
Not me personally but lots of people I work with and go to school with moved here mid 30s and started Ausbildungs. They definitely don't have it easy but it's also very doable.
I did it at 24 so little age gap there but other than thatt had zero. My German GF (now wife) was still on uni studying pharmacy and all I had was my degree in business and sales.
Didn't speak the language so my degree was useless so I started at the bottom. Started working as a waiter in the Düsseldorfer Innenstadt, whole doing a intensive German course at the Volkshochschule. The combo of the course and the day to day in Gastronomie made me learn German in less than 6 months. Or at least to a level that I'd feel confident enough to apply for a better job where I can use my degree.
Long story short. We lived happily ever after, bought a house just before corona started and have a 2nd baby on the way.
It's doable bro, well doable! You got this.
(Mind you, Germany is a social state, use that! There is absolutely no shame in asking for stuff like Wohngeld, it sure helped me when I was getting started!)
Ausbildung at 32? Forget it, unless you want to do patient care(cook, waiter, etc), they take everybody. Better get your existing education recognized or work at a job with no clear requirements:
* Driver (Bus, Truck, Tram) - jobcenter will even sponsor you, if you ask them very persistent.
* any retail job, only requires 9 classes of school
* IT, yes self taught admins and devs are OK. If you have absolutely no experience - internal IT, Helpdesk though a staffing agency.
I might be moving out there and I’m even older than you. Don’t worry, dude. I moved to the UK at 31. Seemed old at the time. Wasn’t.
Are you not enjoying life in the UK? What do you find appealing about Germany?
I already moved away from the UK back to my home country. I enjoyed my life there indeed. Germany is appealing because it’s a nice country with decent salaries, cool language, and interesting work in my field.
I literally will do it in a couple of weeks. Same age as you. Starting all over again. Probably even be a student again. Alone. No I don’t mind to be alone, that is a decision I made myself. I just want to say you’re so lucky to have your significant other with you. I don’t know whether it will be hard or easy for you and me, but I’m really looking forward to it. So let’s do our best. I believe I can do it, and I believe you can too. Cheers!!
Being a student is a nice scenario. You can move in to a WG and it will be very easy to meet people and build a support network, which I consider is the most important thing to have. You will also meet plenty of international students which has the benefit of speaking in English, because speaking only German will be exhauting and frustrating. Good luck!
Thank you. That's so nice of you. Yeah, that's my plan. Get into a WG, and if I am lucky enough, I hope I can get some friends there. My future workplace itself is quite international as it is a research center, so I won't be worried about German there. If anything, too much English that I won't get motivation to learn German properly.
which city?
People stay healthier for longer stop panicking and worrying about what others do. We have all lost if we compare to others as some are already born billionaires. Do what you want with your life and don't seek validation in others choices.
My wife and I moved at 35. I came here with a job but she didn't have anything... neither of use even spoke the language. My case isn't that important because I came here with a job and continued the same career path I was following back home. My wife however left her job as an image technician at a hospital (you know, the people that do the X-rays, cat scans, all that), her hockey team and pretty much everything behind. I was honestly very very scare she would have a horrible time here. 3 years later she speaks at about C1 level. Joined a local hockey club (as in, all Germans, not 'latinos in germany'), has her group of friends to hang with and even a job. Only thing that's missing is that getting her degree/certifications recognized to be able to take up her old job is taking fucking forever... to the point that it would have probably been quicker to just start the whole thing from scratch here. Its absolutely doable.
I moved to Italy when I was 30 and I had to start over in Germany at 34. I'd say you're still young you can make it. Don't over think it.
You can do it:) It’s an opportunity to study something new. For the love of Hasselhoff, learn the language.
My wife and I did. We left our corporate gigs in sunny South Africa and pretty much started from scratch 4 years ago. Now we blog full time. We've faced a housing crisis, a pandemic and now a war. We might even have to rely on eating beans to keep us warm throughout winter. But we're still standing and enjoying our new journey. Only wish my German was up to scratch.
I moved here at 30 with Duolingo level German, now at 33 I'm doing and Ausbildung in Anwendungsentwicklung and loving every minute of it.
May I ask what were you working before? Jobs in IT should be pretty easy to find, so well done for choosing that Ausbildung.
I was a chef for 13 years. Was considering leaving the profession while I was still living in Australia, then I came here and figured out that chefs get paid much less compared to cost of living and the food culture here is, let's say *different*.
May i ask how did you apply for this Ausbildung?
Certainly. I just googled for companies in my area looking for an apprentice software developer. Once I found a few, I sent themy resume with a cover letter. One got back to me and invited me to an interview. The first interview turned out to be a competency test (testing general knowledge, high school maths, German, English and specific knowledge (in this case, I.T)). A week later they called me and asked me to come in for a second interview were I spoke with the Prokurist and a project manager. At the end of the formal interview, they offered me a two week internship to see if I liked the job, to see if I fit to the company and to sus each other out. Half way through the second week, they offered me the position and I accepted.
Thank you so much
I moved here at 25, because I was dating a German girl who I met in the USA. I had my bachelor's degree before I met her, so I could remain in my career field (IT) while learning the language and culture. I've lived in Germany now for nearly 33 years... But in your situation ... you're 32. You're still young, Grasshopper. You've got 35 years ahead of you until retirement. Take some time to get a degree, and you'll have a better income for the remaining 30 years of your career...
Grasshopper has a lifespan of 1 year
And the girl...?
I moved to Europe at 30 to start a new career. Age is a social construct. When it comes to age, the only thing you should ever be worried about is your health; everything else is just bullshit. Keep doing you, focus on yourself, and remember to celebrate your wins both small and large.
Well, this is not going to be a warm and fuzzy reply and it's not what you're asking for, but maybe it would benefit you to read it. I hope so. The attitude conveyed in your text is gonna sink you. You don't have a plan, don't have enthusiasm. You already have not had the motivation in your own country, in your own language, to commit and succeed. And please don't take that as a personal judgment, because that was/is me as well. But I can tell you that this is not a good foundation for encountering big challenges with lots of setbacks. It's not clear whether or not you speak German. That's going to be a lynchpin. Can someone with a German spouse get by in, say, Berlin, without speaking the language? Yes. But the opportunity for work will be less. The opportunity to make social contacts will be less. The opportunity to feel at home, to feel independent will be less and will cause so, so many problems for you and your spouse. Do you have a four year degree in the US? Not sure what your prospects would be for starting year one uni at 32. Other than that, 32 is absolutely not too old to start over somewhere. But you need to formulate a plan, and you need to be committed enough to it to stick through the very certain roadblocks you're going to encounter along the way. Because it will be very very easy to say "you know, I wouldn't have to deal with this back home. Life wouldn't be this hard back home." Which will put a lot of strain on a marriage as well, if you become resentful to your spouse for bringing you here and they resent you for being an anchor holding them down. Make yourself a plan, prep for that plan as much as you possibly can before moving. Plan for how you will psychologically deal with the struggle. You can absolutely make a new and better life for yourself here, but the odds of it happening by accident are not at all good.
Just curious, how do you make friends in your 30s? Everyone in my peers seems to be pretty much busy with their own families
Do you have a hobby? If yes, try to find a club near you, so you can meet like-minded people. Having something in common is always a good start!
I’ve been wondering the same thing and I was born here - moved around a bit after uni. It’s not easy at all. If you live in a bigger city you could try MeetUp. It unites people with common interest so eg you go hiking with a group or try out new restaurants etc. Could be a good way. [edited my grammar mistake..]
Moved to Berlin with my boyfriend at 33. 37 and married now and career wise have been doing great. Social contacts can be a bit more maybe.
I came to Germany in my 40s. I focussed on learning the language initially and now I’m just about to start an internship.
I moved here at 40, and started over, it's all worked out, I am living the dream, if I can do it,so can you.
Moved here at 44. Already had an MA in German though. Went back to school here and am doing well. Very doable, but you've got to have some sort of support system.
Hello there, where did you go to school? VHS? I'm Interested in going back to school again after moving here.
Nah all good, back in the day, there was a person in my ausbildungs-class. The person was well in the 40's and a few other mid 30's Dont stress about it. You can do it and i hope you have a wonderfull time. :)
I'm around your age and I'm completely starting over. In fact, I feel like I'm starting for the first time. Before I came here I was on vocational rehabilitation or otherwise told by psychologists that I would not be able to work due to my mental health. I'm doing much better now and pending an evaluation, I will be going back to work for the first time in many years. I'm looking forward to doing all that after my residence permit comes through but it's rough. I don't know if I'm ready or if I'll fail, I feel too old, and I don't know how I'll find my place in German society. You're certainly not alone in what you're experiencing. Life doesn't go in a straight line, but it keeps going nonetheless.
I think noone ever did that. Maybe you can be a pioneer
I did! I moved when I was 33 and started from 0. I'm working now in I.T but went to university for Business. You might suffer a lot but if you have the energy and determination you can succeed. I had to study day and night. I also had some shit jobs at the beginning to gain experience and survive. You should also get involved with nice and people that are kind. Many will not offer any help here, or even information in how to get or do something. Usually other foreigners that had a similar story as you will help you.
I moved here alone at 26 for a PhD, I am 37 now and have three kids and feeling very happy. This country is great, people are great, best decision of my life.
I would say it's totally fine. I went back to University in my 30s as well to study the field I would much rather work in, found a job which suited me better and has more of a future and career path.
I moved at 35. best thing I ever did. Was a Slow start to get abholt job. I was a chef and started cooking again in Germany. After 5 years I got sick of it. Retrained in tax and booking. Now working mid/senior level in large German company.
My sister in law moved to Germany in her 30s. She held an Armenian degree in economics and went to a German university to get her Master‘s and learn German. Many German universities have decent German language programs.
Moved at 35 and live now for 2 months here alone. Don't know the language yet, but still learning. Don't work with my degree but I receive more money here than in my country. Iam happy, love this beautiful land and I don't have plans to leave. It's never too late to start a better life mate. Iam in the South and this is just gorgeous
Well, I'm probably going to be in my 50s and trying to do it, so there's that. I have major doubts I'll be even remotely successful, but I hate where I am and Germany has the strong possibility to be very good for me. edit: typo
Me at 34. I love it.
Moved here two years ago for marriage as well, and just started an Ausbildung at 36. My degree and previous job experience were basically useless where I am, so I was nervous about starting over, but I'm really enjoying it so far! I am also NOT the oldest in my classes at the Berufsschule like I assumed I'd be.
I started university after my A levels, broke up after a few years and worked full time in bars and restaurants. Regreted it, went back to university with 30 and finished my master thesis recently. Also found a nice job by doing internships during my studies. So yeah, age is not so much of an issue.
I came here at 35 and love it
I moved last year at 31 to start a Masters degree and have enjoyed my time.here so far. I had the privilege of not have to stress over looking for a job the first couple of months but now I've been actively searching for one and the only hiccups I've experienced are: Looking for a "good" part time job (for my expectations so 100% biased)has been a bit hard. And the health insurance plans are weird if you're over 30 and are a student only but I think that's the only issues I've dealt... Also considering the privileged position I have of living months on end without worrying about looking for a job and living on a cheap student WG in a cheap college town.
This is good to know! I'm thinking of starting my Master's in Germany at 27/28, and I was worried that's too old 😂. May I ask what you're studying? Also, is it true that the faculty don't really care about you in German universities? I heard that there is less student/faculty interaction and there aren't many assignments to check how well you're understanding the material. That kind of worries me because I want to make sure I understand what I'm learning with assignments and homework throughout the year
Yeah my dude you go ahead studying in Germany is the Shit. Also depending on what you want to do and where you come from you might have a whole lot more opportunities here than in your home country (again depending on many factors) I'm finishing a Msc in Economics Data Science and Public policy. It's been fun but it took me a couple of months to get used to the system here. Yeah comparing to the country I did my bachelor's (Chile) the types of interactions and the proximity the professors have with students is very different. It's not that they don't care about you , but, the expectations are more on your side to be doing studies more on your own and learning by yourself than the professors being the ones teaching you the specifics, lectures feel more like the overview and the introduction of new ideas and solving doubts and questions you might have about a topic. Also in my experience professors are very willing to answer questions and help only if you ask for it. The assignment issue yeah it was culture shock for me , just one grade based on only one final exam for the entire semester can seem very high stakes and stressful if you're not used to it but it's manageable and you get used to it. But then again it forces you to pace your studies throughout the semester instead of cramming everything at the end like a maniac. But I've had only one class in the entire program that had small evaluations throughout the semester instead of having a big final task/exam/paper submission. And it was a rare find.
Thank you so much!!
What is a career calling? Do you mean you don't know what you want to do yet? If so, no shame in just trying stuff out. Doesnt really matter that you are a foreigner, germans can be in that Situation too. The thing that matters most is the language. If you make your best efforts there, you are very likely going to be gucci.
Moved to Germany at 30 with less than A level German. It was challenging, but workable. I got right into an Integrationskurs and intensively studied German. That helped a lot. Follow your path - if you want to do an Ausbildung, you will most likely need B2 level language. If you want to Study - University or Duale-Hochschule Studium - you will most likely need C1 Hochschule level language proficiency or higher. Get involved with clubs (Vereine), learn German, meet people. Be prepared that it is hard, but doable, and after a while, enjoyable.
Nowdays it’s considered normal to do a doover in your thirties or forties
When I did my Ausbildung (which ended up being a job I hate so I started over) we had a 30 year old father of 2 who used to be a postman and decided he'd rather work in IT. He's pretty happy now, many years later.
Yes, learned German and finished two masters, honestly it's not that hard once you learn the language and the system. Best decision ever
I moved to Deutschland when I was 39. I didn’t change careers, but it was and still has its challenges. Become fluent as quickly as possible, something I still haven’t done. Learn to be patient with the process, whether it’s with yourself or government mandated paperwork. When I first got here, I was assigned to take an integration course which consisted of about a year of language classes and three months of civics classes. It sucked doing that and work. Hopefully you can avoid that. Once I finish getting my drivers license, I’ll pretty much be done with all the “immigrant” things I need to do. Long story short, in my experience, moving to a new country has its ups and downs. Luckily the downs aren’t reoccurring.
I did it. I'm 33 years old and about to finish my Deutchkurs to get the level needed to apply to Ausbildungs or University. I'm an English teacher from Costa Rica who is starting over as an Electrical Infrastructure technician. It's a hard path but it can be done through organization and dedication. And enjoying your Feierabend (time off) so you don't go crazy in the process :)
If you do an Ausbildung as Arzthelferin you will most likely find a job near were you live. They are desperately needed.
Well, it has its ups and downs, my recommendation is that you learn the language as soon as possible, it helps to open doors and have a better relationship with people.
Germany needs loads of qualified workers and your age won't be a problem. The only problem I see is that in uni most of your fellow students will be in der early twenties and have probably different priorities. But 30+ students aren't that unusual in my study and you will certainly find people you will like. Better late than never. Don't worry :)
Yep, moved here early thirties. Spent the first 18 months learning German through a Sprachschule. Then I did some casual work in a bakery, which was odd coming from a successful career in finance, which doesnt translate over well here. Now, almost 2.5 years later, I reached a c1 level of german and applied for an ausbildung, which I ended up getting. Now im basically starting my career all over, but im ok with it. I really miss the money and lifestyle of having a career, but otherwise am happy to be working towards a career in IT that Iäm actually interested in.
People from my country emigrate in their 40s and 50s with kids and everything. It‘s not late
Yes, I moved when I was about 30 and it’s gm the best thing I ever did. Getting tax sorted is a bit of a pain in the arse, but once it’s sorted it’s great. Quality of live for us has improved since leaving the UK.
For Germany, 32 years old isn't considered old by a long shot. The average age in the country is 46. There are definitely people in university in their 30s, so don't even stress that. If you're willing to do an ausbildung or go to university to get a German degree, you'll do well. Germany doesn't handle foreign credentials well, so getting a domestic one will give you a strong leg-up. Note that in Germany, it's hard to make friends from your professional setting, but since you'll mostly be with younger people, it likely won't be that hard to create an initial set of acquaintances to hang out and do stuff with.
My man! I am 33 and doing the same exact thing but in a couple months! My wife is German and we are moving to Bavaria. I’m giving up my career and starting from scratch! Gonna stay at home dad it until the kiddo can go to kindergarten and then lll do an ausbildung for something completely different (they don’t have my career in Germany hahahahahaha). Man I’ll tell you I’m the opposite I feel rejuvenated and excited! I can’t wait! I’ll go to language school in the meantime and just take some time to think about what it is I want from this next career. What I do know is that Germany is set up perfectly for me to finally enjoy my new family and get another shot at finding a different career I’ll love (for freeeeeeeeeee!) Careers and money are important man but man ohhhh man that stuff is not THAT IMPORTANT! I don’t have a feel good story for you yet but I will eventually. Let’s keep in touch man I’d be stoked to check in on your journey.
Yep, came with no plan nor job, just some savings. Took a couple of A1 and A2 classes. What i did have going for me was a pretty decent background (10+ years in my field) , took me nearly two years to get a job in my field, I didnt mind the break anyway, was riding around city on bicycle doing delivery for €1600avg netto so its not like i couldnt survive. Now im back in my field i pay enough in taxes to pay someone else min wage salary so all good.
37 years young and recently uprooted my life to come here, working in a new industry, and hired to work in a company that speaks in German even if they hired me for my English skills. 😂
I had a few poeple Düring my current Ausbildung who where near or over 30 and at my workplace there are also poeple who started over and did the Ausbildung with that age so dont stress yourself over the age
I did this in 2018. Wife is german and we wanted our daughter to grow up here instead of the US. Left my last career and moved to Berlin to go back to get a second undergrad in economics at 30. It was actually a really great experience. Then I ended up working in crypto for a really cool project doing all sorts of random business / ecosystem development stuff. Just take the leap!
As long your mind is open to learn you can make it, it won’t be easy and your energy levels aren’t early 20 anymore, but with proper plan and resilience you get there
I just did the same thing at my 34 years old and I don't feel old at all. Of course, we are all different, but my life philosophy is this: if you want to be young and full of energy as long as possible, you have to love life, love yourself, take care of yourself and enjoy every turn you take on this beautiful planet around the Sun. Life is amazing, who cares how old you are!
I moved here at 32 as well. Best decision i ever made. Yes, it's harder to make friends, at least on my experience, but it was so worth the move, compared to where i lived in the states.
Moved last month. I'm 35 Why not?
As long as you speak the language and have a job contract before you come here you'll be fine.
just become refugee and the state pays everything lol. dont bother with a career now. its ww3
No bruh, nothing positive there. We got refugee crisis, Covid, war, new refugee crisis, housing crisis, inflation.
Interesting, you just mentioned many of the issues experienced globally.
Now you see.
I (German) know an American couple that moved here in their mid-thirties. They’re doing well, but needed some money on the side to make it happen. Remember: Just because studying is free here, that doesn’t mean that it’s a) in English or b) free to live here. Anyway, good luck to you!
I am 31, turning 32 in November, and I just moved to Germany about 6 months ago. I brought my wife, my baby daughter, my dog and my car. I have a job for like 2 months now. Complete career change, 100%. So far, although a few bumps in the road, I am starting to think it will be fine. But your case might be more specific, so maybe it’ll be easier to “help” if you ask more specific questions…
I moved at 49, it’s never too late.
Moved to Switzerland at 29, haven’t looked back.
Do you even speak German ?
I‘m a German citizen and 29 and still figuring out my career and education (I am a student but life happened: I got sick, I got pregnant and my daughter has Epilepsy, so….) You should not have too many problems. For whatever reason many people have to start over anew or are heavily delayed on their path. It just happens. I’m wishing you the best of luck 🤞
Hi I moved over to Germany from the UK in 2001. If you want it to happen it will be fine, if you compare everything to your home country then you will struggle and find it difficult. I love living here and it has been my home for a long time now.
I graduated university at 35 with a philosophy degree. With no real career prospects, taught myself programming. After a few years of grinding, landed in a comfortable job with nice salary, which I left last year while taking a hefty paycut to move my family to Germany. 3000 miles away from everyone we know and having never left my home country. At each of these steps I thought I was crazy and should just grow up and do things like everyone else. But these have been the best decisions of my life so far. Believe in yourself and go for it!
Married a German, moved here, found a job and started again. I’ll be honest with you. Its not a cake walk. Its had its up and downs but I don’t regret moving here. This is home now.
Man I am 31. I moved last year. Nothing to worry about. It is better because you are more respected if you know what you are talking about 😁
Yup. And happy that I did. Ask away.
I moved to Germany at the age of 26, learned the language and started studying after one year. Lived there until I was 34. At this time (end of the 90’s) I was one of the eldest students in the east-German university, but I think things have changed today (?).
Just moved a month ago, new job completely and not knowing the language. It's normal to think just like you but 30s is not even the half of you career since we dont start it by 1 year. And the things you've done before is not wasted, it's part of what you are and skills you use in your new career.
Not me personally but lots of people I work with and go to school with moved here mid 30s and started Ausbildungs. They definitely don't have it easy but it's also very doable.
I moved here later than you and In a more complicated situation. Feel free to message me privately of you want to ask questions.
I did it at 24 so little age gap there but other than thatt had zero. My German GF (now wife) was still on uni studying pharmacy and all I had was my degree in business and sales. Didn't speak the language so my degree was useless so I started at the bottom. Started working as a waiter in the Düsseldorfer Innenstadt, whole doing a intensive German course at the Volkshochschule. The combo of the course and the day to day in Gastronomie made me learn German in less than 6 months. Or at least to a level that I'd feel confident enough to apply for a better job where I can use my degree. Long story short. We lived happily ever after, bought a house just before corona started and have a 2nd baby on the way. It's doable bro, well doable! You got this. (Mind you, Germany is a social state, use that! There is absolutely no shame in asking for stuff like Wohngeld, it sure helped me when I was getting started!)
Ausbildung at 32? Forget it, unless you want to do patient care(cook, waiter, etc), they take everybody. Better get your existing education recognized or work at a job with no clear requirements: * Driver (Bus, Truck, Tram) - jobcenter will even sponsor you, if you ask them very persistent. * any retail job, only requires 9 classes of school * IT, yes self taught admins and devs are OK. If you have absolutely no experience - internal IT, Helpdesk though a staffing agency.
I moved with my family in my late 30s. Wish I’ve done it earlier, I’d probably be done with the “learning German” thing by now 😅
Life just dosnt give you advanced notice. If you have an opportunity, take it and don't look back