March 2025 changes in Germany. Life in Germany. Several changes are coming in March: pension payments will be lower, a minimum wage increase will apply to certain workers, and moped owners must update their insurance plates. Also, protection for Ukrainian refugees is being extended, and new rules on tree and shrub pruning will take effect.
Lower pensions for millions of retirees
Starting in March, many pensioners in Germany will receive slightly lower payments due to an increase in supplementary health insurance contributions. Although the new rates took effect in January, the deductions apply with a two-month delay. For example, a pensioner receiving €1,500 per month may now get €6 less, based on an average contribution increase of 0.8%.
Minimum wage for temporary work increases
Starting March 1, 2025, the minimum wage for temporary workers (Zeitarbeit) will increase to €14.53 per hour (up from €14). This applies to both German and foreign companies posting workers to Germany.
Read also: Germany’s minimum wage set to rise: What you need to know
New insurance plates for mopeds and light vehicles
From March 1, 2025, owners of mopeds, scooters, Segways, and other small electric vehicles must update their insurance plates, which will now be green. Failing to display a valid plate can result in fines and penalties, as it serves as proof of third-party liability insurance.
Extended protection for Ukrainian refugees
Ukrainian refugees in Germany will have their right to stay automatically extended until March 4, 2026, without needing to apply. However, this does not apply to non-Ukrainian citizens who were living in Ukraine without a permanent residence permit. For them, protection will end on March 5, 2025, according to mdr.de.
Restrictions on cutting trees and shrubs
From March 1 to September 30, cutting down or completely removing trees and shrubs is prohibited to protect nesting birds. Light pruning is allowed but must not damage nests. It is also advised to avoid cutting during frost to prevent harm to plants.
We are switching to summer time
On the night of March 29 to 30, clocks will move one hour forward, marking the switch to summer time. This means one hour less sleep, and it may take 1-2 days for the body to adjust. Although there have been discussions about ending the time change, no final decision has been made at the European level.