Servus an Alle!

Welcome back to the Munich Post! The purpose of this newsletter is to share: 3 bits of news, 2 upcoming events, and 1 amazing restaurant/café for expats living in and around Munich. This way, you have a pulse on what’s going on without scrolling through thousands of pages.

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Here’s what we’ve got for you today:

3 bits of news

Germany is Opening Doors to International Talent

The German government has just made some groundbreaking updates to its immigration law, known as the Skilled Immigration Act.

Implemented in June 2023, these reforms aim to simplify the process, remove bureaucratic hurdles, and create innovative pathways for skilled immigrants like yourself.

Key takeaways from the new immigration law:

1. First up, the definition of qualified professionals has been expanded. This means it's now easier for non-academic skilled individuals, to access the German labor market.

2. Germany has introduced the Opportunity Card, a fantastic initiative based on a points system. This card is designed for individuals with incredible potential, and it opens doors to a world of possibilities.

3. We can't forget our tech-savvy friends. The new law also recognizes the vital role of IT specialists in today's digital economy. That's why additional provisions have been put in place specifically for people with digital expertise. 

4. Another key update: the immigration process has been simplified for nationals from the Western Balkan states. So, if you're from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia, the path to living and working in Germany just got a whole lot smoother.

5. Then there is the new law which also includes provisions for family reunification. If you're planning to bring your parents or parents-in-law to Germany, they can now obtain residence permits, allowing you to build a life together in this beautiful country.

6. The government is actively working to increase labor force participation among different segments of the population. This means they want to encourage more people, especially women and older individuals, to join the workforce.

7. The government is investing in both initial and continuing education. Whether you're a recent graduate looking to enter the job market or a professional seeking to upskill, Germany is introducing initiatives to support you.

8. Let's discuss the changes to the EU Blue Card. This amazing resource has been further improved to make it more accessible and beneficial for skilled immigrants. The gross salary threshold has been lowered to €43,800, opening doors to a wider range of professionals. Additionally, the professional experience requirements have been shortened, making it easier for talented individuals to qualify. And here's the best part: the EU Blue Card is now available to anyone with a degree, irrespective of their field of study.

9. Last but not least, the path for asylum seekers. Yes, even asylum seekers have the opportunity to transition into skilled worker status.

Use the visa navigator to check which visa applies to you.

For the full scoop read here or here (in English).

New Destinations from Munich Airport

Munich Airport is broadening our horizons with new airlines and new destinations.

What’s in the flight plan?

Well, Lufthansa is powering up several long-haul services, including flights to Mexico City, Osaka & Tokyo - Japan, Beijing and Shanghai too. The German carrier is also activating destinations closer to home with flights to Rzeszów - Poland, Asturias - Spain, and Bordeaux - France.

And those with family and friends in North America will be delighted to hear that four new A380 Airbuses will be revived during the summer travel period.

EasyJet will be launching direct services to Naples - Italy. Croatia Airlines will add a new route to Brać - Croatia. A brand new airline, Fly One, will start flights from Munich to Moldova.

Read the full details here.

Bonus:

• Changes in July

• Swiss Transport Authorities Seek to Ban German Trains

• Amazon’s new e-vans

Innovation on Rails: Munich's Idea Train

Deutsche Bahn is shaking up the train game right here in Bavaria. Think comfort, innovation, and a whole new way to travel. The “idea train,” or Ideenzug, as they call it, is now up and running between Munich Central Station and Mühldorf.

What's so special?

On board, you'll find ten unique elements that will redefine the RB train travel experience. For example, there are office cabins for focused work, big tables for family gatherings, information screens about your journey, separate corner benches for privacy, and even electrically adjustable comfort chairs in 1st class. You can also look forward to generous panoramic armchairs, a Stammtisch regulars' table with a TV set, and plenty of storage space for your luggage.

You might even spot a fitness area with spinning bikes or super-clean toilets with a new hygiene concept.

DB has been collecting ideas from customers since 2016 so if the prototype is well received, 500 more idea trains are planned for the rest of Germany by 2026.

You can check the timetable for this train below:

Find more information on this link.

2 upcoming events

Munich’s Sports Festival returns

The much-loved Munich Sports Festival is back after a three-year break. This is not just a spectator event - you’re encouraged to roll up your sleeves and dive into the action.

Experience more than 70 sports offerings – for free. There is no age limit and no experience needed.

This year’s festival is packed with thrilling events like - the “Minga Warrior” Ninja Warrior Competition, Munich street soccer cup, and a new world record attempt – juggling in 7 minutes. Want to participate in the world record attempt? Register here.

You can check the complete program schedule here. 

General information 

📅 Sunday, July 9

⏰ 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

📍 Königsplatz, München

Tech, Art, Science

If you have an interest in anything scientific and innovative be it AI, quantum tech, Web3, Climate tech, the Metaverse or even Space, then the Future Festival at the Deutsches Museum is your playground this weekend.

The Festival is not just about showcasing the latest development - it’s also about making connections that will advance your professional interests.

Alongside knowledge-packed workshops, there will be an interactive exhibition, art installations and performance. You can view the program schedule here.

General information 

📅 Thursday, July 6 - Saturday, July 8

⏰ 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

📍 Deutsches Museum, Museumsinsel 1, 80538 München

💶 From €22.61

Buy your tickets here. 

It is our desire to bring our readers the best information about Munich — at zero cost to you. In keeping with this theme, I’d like to thank the sponsors for today’s newsletter.

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1 new restaurant/café to try

Ahimsa

Ahimsa is an Asian-fusion restaurant that will redefine your dining experience. Situated in a chic, rustic setting near Kolumbusplatz, Ahimsa serves up a storm of delicious vegan dishes.

Although the restaurant space might be small, the ambiance is super cozy and inviting. The place is a hit among locals, so making a reservation a few days in advance might save you a wait.

Now, let’s talk about the food. If you’re a fan of dumpling or tempura or fried veggie rolls you must head here immediately. They are nothing short of spectacular. Our friends raved about their starters - so going tapas style with a bunch of your friends is a great option too. For mains, we tried the curry, calamari and sushi roll and we were impressed.

Complementing this fantastic menu is their stellar service. The staff takes customer appreciation to another level.

📍 Sommerstraße 41, 81543 München

🥘 Vegan Asian Fusion

⏰ Tuesday - Sunday: 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Closed Monday

🔗 https://www.ahimsa-restaurant.de

Expat tip of the week 🤓

We shared the Scalable Capital offer last week but one of the subscribers had another suggestion. Jake James (below) shares his tip that expats should try Trade Republic instead. It costs zero fees.

Trade Republic is a mobile-based online brokerage platform that allows individuals to trade stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and other securities. It is a digital investment platform that offers a user-friendly interface and allows investors to buy and sell securities directly from their smartphones.

Join Trade Republic to make your money work for you! Use this personal invitation link to sign up and receive a bonus here (my referral link). I am also using Trade Republic and earning 2% on my uninvested cash as well.

Some more info about the offer:

The bonus conditions are:

• You need to invest at least 3000€

• You need to have at least 6 transactions to get this bonus

  Disclaimer: Jake and I are sharing our experiences with Trade Republic for informational purposes only. —Aazar

Reply to this email if you have a tip for expats like the above.

Meme of the week 😂

Thanks for reading and sharing the Munich Post 3-2-1 newsletter.

See ya next week!

Aazar, Arlene, Christina, and Heidi

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