Risky move?
Considering moving to Germany (Chancenkarte) – is this too risky?
TL;DR:
American with ~3+ years IT experience, associate’s degree, ~$50k savings now + ~$80k more expected soon, B1–B2 German, considering Germany via Chancenkarte with housing option. Previously fully relocated to the Middle East (with dog). Also aware some Germans recommend against moving there.
Too risky without a bachelor’s, or worth trying?
I’m an American considering moving to Germany and looking for honest input.
I have visited Germany and neighboring countries quite a few times over the last 10 years and have friends there.
I recently lived abroad for several months—I fully relocated to the Middle East (sold my car, got rid of most of my stuff, brought my dog which was chaos) and hadn’t planned on coming back—so I understand what’s involved with moving internationally.
I’ve also seen a surprising number of Germans, both online and in person, moving to the U.S. who said Germany isn’t bad, but wouldn’t recommend moving there. I understand everyone has different experiences and priorities.
My situation:
- Associate’s degree in Network & System Administration
- IT experience:
- Sysadmin/Helpdesk – 2 years
- NOC Tech – 1 year
- Server Tech – 3 months
- German ~B1–B2 (no certificate yet)
- Non-EU citizen
- ~$50k savings currently, with an additional ~$80k expected within the next 8–10 months
- Small dog
Housing option near Frankfurt through someone I know.
Planning to use the Chancenkarte and find work there. I’ll get a language certificate before or shortly after moving.
I’m aware of issues (layoffs, energy costs, taxes), but I value quality of life and work-life balance over maximizing income.
Main concerns:
- No bachelor’s degree
- Competing with EU candidates
- Financial risk without a job lined up
- Whether taxes/insurance make Germany more expensive overall
I’m currently looking for either an Ausbildung or IT work (ideally remote so I don’t have to leave my dog alone or with a sitter).
Questions:
- Is this too risky as a non-EU candidate in my situation?
- Should I get a bachelor’s first, or is experience/certs enough?
- Does this move make sense financially long-term?
Main question:
Is this worth trying, or a bad idea right now?
My Zeugnisbewertung states
