Questions and answers for women in Berlin
Official Paperwork
- Can I find a free interpreter to take to an official appointment (Amt, tenants' association, etc.)?
- Can I get a biometric photo taken at dm?
- How do I get a certificate of good conduct (Führungszeugnis), and how long does it take?
- How do I update my address with the Turkish consulate, and is there a fine if I am late?
Health
- A doctor's website says 'private patients only'. Can I go as a new patient with statutory insurance?
- Any recommendations for a good or Turkish-speaking family doctor (Hausarzt) in Berlin?
- Any recommendations for a good orthopaedist or physiotherapist (Krankengymnastik) in Berlin?
- Any recommendations for a good Turkish-speaking dentist, orthodontist or oral surgeon in Berlin?
Work & Career
- Can I be dismissed during the probation period (Probezeit), and what should I watch out for?
- Can I take time off work when my child is sick? (Kinderkrankentage)
- Do I need my Turkish profession or degree recognised in Germany?
- How do I apply for a job in Germany, and which documents do I need?
Pregnancy & Birth
- How do I get a residence permit and passport for my child born in Germany?
- How do I take parental leave (Elternzeit), and can my partner and I share it?
- How long is maternity leave (Mutterschutz), and do I get paid?
- I'm a freelancer/self-employed: what rights do I have during pregnancy and after the birth?
Children & School
- How do I get a Kita place?
- How does the school system work in Germany, and what is the difference between Gymnasium and Sekundarschule?
- I'm a foreign national. Can I get child benefit (Kindergeld) in Germany?
- My child is travelling with only one parent. Do we need a consent letter (muvafakatname)?
Housing & Rent
- Can I rent a flat in Berlin while I'm still in Turkey, before I come to Germany?
- How do I get a few pieces of furniture or a sofa moved within Berlin?
- I damaged something in my rented flat. How does liability insurance pay for it?
- I lost a key when moving out of my rented flat. What should I do?
Residence & Visa
- Can I apply for citizenship a few months before my 5 years are up?
- Can I change the purpose of my residence permit, for example from student to worker? (Zweckwechsel)
- Can I use the biometric photo from my residence permit application to renew my passport at the Turkish consulate?
- Can I work more than 20 hours a week on a student visa?
Law & Rights
- Can I vote in elections in Germany?
- How does divorce work in Germany, how long does it take, and what is the separation year (Trennungsjahr)?
- How is child maintenance calculated, and what happens if the father doesn't pay?
- I can't afford a lawyer: does the state provide legal aid?
Violence & Emergency Help
- I'm experiencing violence. Who can help me?
- I'm in danger right now or experiencing violence. Which number should I call?
- My residence permit depends on my spouse and I'm experiencing violence. Will I lose my permit if I leave?
- Where are the counselling centres and shelters for women experiencing violence in Berlin?
Language & Courses
- Can I take a German course with Bildungsurlaub?
- How can I start a job-related German course (Berufssprachkurs)? Do I need to do an integration course first?
- How do I apply to university (bachelor's) in Germany? Will my documents be accepted?
- How do I join an integration course (Integrationskurs)?
Transport & Travel
- Can I get a car lease or loan without a Schufa record?
- Can I use a phone bought in Germany with my Turkish SIM in Turkey (IMEI, 120 days)?
- Can I use an eSIM for internet when I travel to Turkey?
- Can my child fly to Turkey alone, and what do they need?
Money & Taxes
- Any recommendations for a Turkish-speaking tax adviser (Steuerberater) in Berlin?
- Does my tax class (Steuerklasse) change when I get married, and which one should we choose?
- How can I save on electricity, heating and everyday costs?
- How do I find a reliable tax adviser for my tax return, and how much does it cost?
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