Life in Germany. Changes in Germany in May 2024. The month of May will usher in changes impacting many in Germany. Among these changes are higher taxes on plane tickets, an increased minimum wage for certain employees, and numerous days off. Here’s an overview of the significant updates to expect.
Many days off for employees
May begins with Labor Day on Wednesday, a public holiday across Germany. Ascension Day follows on Thursday, May 9, with another day off on Monday, May 20. Towards the end of the month, Corpus Christi falls on Thursday, May 30, although it’s not observed as a public holiday in all federal states. Additionally, May brings a new holiday for students.
Read also: Students to Enjoy Free Nationwide Travel with Deutschlandticket – Starting August!
Higher ticket charges for air travel
If you’re planning to travel abroad for your holidays, be prepared for higher airfare prices. Starting May 1, 2024, the aviation tax will see a 20 percent increase. While airlines are responsible for paying these surcharges, they often pass them on to passengers. The fees are as follows:
- First class distance (Europe): 15.53 euros (previously 12.73 euros)
- Distance class II (medium distance, e.g. North Africa or Middle East): €38.72 (previously €32.25)
- Distance class III (long distance, e.g. North and South America): €70.83 (previously €58.06)
Increases in the minimum wage in care
Great news for geriatric care workers: Starting May 1, the minimum wage in this industry will increase. Unskilled workers will now receive at least 15.50 euros per hour, up from the previous 14.15 euros. Qualified nurses will see their minimum wage rise from 15.25 to 16.50 euros per hour, while specialist nurses will see an increase from 18.25 to 19.50 euros per hour. Additionally, there will be more days off for geriatric care workers.
New fuel in gas stations
Germany is striving to achieve climate neutrality, and one step towards this goal is the introduction of greener diesel fuels. New alternatives are set to be introduced at gas stations soon, with the first ones potentially becoming available in May. An exact date has not been confirmed yet. Before filling up, car owners should ensure that their vehicles can tolerate the new fuels, such as XLT, HVO, or B10.
More information when buying a new car
Starting May 1, prospective car buyers in Germany will receive enhanced information from dealerships when purchasing new vehicles. Dealers will be required to provide specific details on consumption and emissions, either by displaying a label directly on the vehicle in the showroom or by specifying the information, including online purchases.
Read also: Used car scams plague. Here’s how anyone can be a victim
The end of the Deutsche Bahn Streckenagent app
The Deutsche Bahn DB Streckenagent smartphone app will no longer be available after May 2. This app was used by passengers to receive alerts about current disruptions. Going forward, some features of DB Streckenagent will be integrated into the DB Navigator app, which allows users to search for connections, book tickets, and receive real-time information for regional, local, and long-distance transportation.
It’s important to note that if you purchased a Deutschlandticket through the DB Streckenagent app, this subscription will be automatically canceled on April 30, 2024. Deutsche Bahn has stated that it cannot transfer this subscription to another app due to technical limitations. Those affected can sign up for a new subscription using the DB Navigator app instead.
AI warnings on Facebook and Instagram
Starting in May 2024, Meta is easing its restrictions on content created by artificial intelligence (AI). The parent company of Facebook, Meta, will permit a wider range of photos, audio, and video content generated or altered by AI on its platforms, rather than removing them entirely. These new labels are set to be implemented in May and will be applicable to Facebook, Instagram, and the short messaging service Threads, as reported by wa.de.