Schools, Kita and childcare for newcomer families

Children have a right to a Kita (Kindertagesstätte / nursery) place from age one in Germany, and schooling is compulsory from age six. Applications go via the local Jugendamt or the city's online Kita portal.

Key points to understand

Kita places are heavily subsidised; fees are income-dependent and in some Bundesländer (e.g. Berlin) free

Kita places are heavily subsidised; fees are income-dependent and in some Bundesländer (e.g. Berlin) free. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Primary school (Grundschule) is assigned by address catchment area — no application needed in most Bundesländer

Primary school (Grundschule) is assigned by address catchment area — no application needed in most Bundesländer. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

International and bilingual schools exist in most major cities; waiting lists are long, apply as early as possible

International and bilingual schools exist in most major cities; waiting lists are long, apply as early as possible. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.