As March draws near, the onset of spring brings forth many changes with significant effects for residents in Germany. These changes include a variety of developments, ranging from rising prices and increased wages for specific employee categories to revised immigration regulations and updates to Disney Plus. Join us as we outline the notable changes on the horizon in Germany for March 2024.
Energy prices will be even more expensive from March 2024
Gas prices have risen again since January 2024. As the Federal Network Agency reports, the removal of the gas price subsidy and the increase in CO2 prices of more than 40 cents per ton drove energy costs higher at the start of the year. Fuel prices have also increased. With taxes rising from 7% to 19% in March, energy will become even more expensive. The federal government’s October 2022 VAT cut was only temporary and therefore expires now.
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Funding for agricultural diesel will cease from March
In March, agricultural diesel costs are poised for another rise. This uptick is linked to the ongoing reduction of subsidies, a trend expected to persist until 2026. The announcement of subsidy cancellations has triggered widespread protests and roadblocks by farmers in recent weeks. The increase in agricultural diesel expenses might further contribute to the upward trajectory of food prices in the foreseeable future.
No more account sharing: after Netflix, comes Disney+
As per media reports, Disney+ is set to follow in the footsteps of its competitor Netflix by discontinuing account sharing. Aligning with the policies of Netflix, Disney+ will implement this change by the end of March, rendering account sharing unavailable. The strategic aim behind this move is akin to Netflix’s approach, anticipating that these alterations will encourage more individual subscriptions and, consequently, drive up overall sales.
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100 euros for young people: “birthday money”
Individuals turning 18 in 2024 will be eligible for a state-provided gift of 100 euros, designated for a specific purpose. Similar to the previous year, these young adults will receive a “culture pass” (KulturPass), although the allocated amount has been reduced to 100 euros from the previous 200 euros. Despite the reduction, approximately 750,000 young individuals will still enjoy support for purchasing books, concert tickets, and other cultural activities.
More money for state employees
According to the Verdi union, civil servants, judges, and military personnel will receive increased remuneration starting March 1, 2024. In addition to a basic salary boost of 200 euros, their overall salaries will see a further increase of 5.3 percent. Furthermore, these professional sectors will benefit from an inflation compensation payment of 1,240 euros for June 2023, along with a special monthly payment of 220 euros spanning from July 2023 to February 2024.
Read also: Higher support for low-income families: Kinderzuschlag increased in Germany
Less money for pensioners
Starting from March, the increased costs of health insurance will lead to a reduction in pensions in Germany. While changes to the additional contribution came into effect in January, the previous amounts were still applicable for the first two months of the year. From March onwards, we anticipate that the adjustment in pension amounts will take effect to reflect the updated health insurance costs.
From March it will be easier for skilled workers to immigrate to Germany
Starting from March 2024, the process for aspiring skilled workers from other countries to temporarily reside in Germany will be more accessible. The new immigration law for skilled workers permits individuals participating in an adaptation qualification or compensatory measure in Germany to enter the country.
As outlined by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the anticipated duration of stay is one year, with the possibility of extension up to three years. Additionally, potential skilled workers will have the option to work an additional 20 hours per week. Moreover, individuals possessing a recognized professional or university degree and a minimum of two years of professional experience are eligible to enter the country under these new regulations.
Daylight savings time
As of now, 40% of the world’s countries continue to observe the practice of changing their time twice a year. Regrettably, in the European Union, this demand still persists in 2024. According to echo24.de, on March 31, the clocks will be set forward by one hour, marking the transition to daylight saving time.