Valerija on emigration: “Leaving Germany was the best thing”

Valerija Kraval, 26, from Latvia, has left Germany after several years. In an interview with "Die Welt ," she describes her reasons for doing so. Kraval originally came to Berlin with high expectations.

She thought the Federal Republic was the best country in Western Europe. Today, she draws a sobering conclusion: " Leaving Germany again was perhaps the best thing I ever did."

Kraval moved to Berlin seven years ago to study and hoped to pursue a career as a professional. Initially, she appreciated the capital's cultural diversity, but over time, the disadvantages outweighed her. Bureaucratic hurdles, what she considered a dilapidated infrastructure, and the high tax burden ultimately prompted her to return abroad.

" The infrastructure in Germany is in a state that's almost unbelievable," Kraval criticizes in the "Welt" newspaper. Despite her initial enthusiasm, Berlin in particular offered her no long-term prospects, especially regarding her career. She emphasizes, however, that her departure was not for professional reasons, but rather due to structural problems in everyday life.

Official bureaucracy and lengthy procedures have noticeably complicated her professional and private life in Germany. While the constant flow of new forms and regulations has led to her being "significantly better organized" today, she also found many processes to be hampering.

The marketing expert cites taxes and social security contributions as the third and, for her, most important issue: "It's simply too much." The high tax burden has reinforced her impression that performance is less rewarding in Germany.

The country's mentality also played a role for Kraval, although she remains cautious about this. However, she has noticed differences in everyday life – for example, in how criticism is handled and in the service orientation.

Overall, Valerija Kraval understands why many skilled workers are turning their backs on Germany . According to "Welt," she now speaks five languages ​​fluently and works in marketing abroad. She doesn't regret her decision to leave Germany.

Like Valerija Kraval, more and more people are turning their backs on Germany—whether because of high taxes, growing bureaucracy, or the desire for a simpler life. According to official figures, 202,816 German citizens were registered leaving the country between January and September 2023 alone.

• Visa & Bureaucracy: Each destination country has its own entry and residence regulations – find out about visa types and deadlines early on.
• Language skills: Without a language base, it will be difficult to start over – language certificates such as TOEFL or IELTS are often required.
• Costs & Jobs: Check the cost of living and whether your qualifications will be recognized in the new country.
• Health system: Many countries require private health insurance – especially for the self-employed or freelancers.
• Don't forget Plan B: If you go abroad, you should also have a return plan in your pocket – just in case.