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Everything that changes in November 2022 in Germany

Snigdha DaluaNovember 4, 2022

207 3 minutes read

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Everything that changes in November 2022 in Germany

Here’s a look at some of the changes taking effect in Germany as of Tuesday, November 1st, from lower subscription prices to increased worker rights.

1. Eliminating pricing inequality among energy providers

Energy providers won’t be able to significantly raise costs for new customers from November 1. As procurement prices surged in the midst of Germany’s energy crisis, several energy firms raised their rates for new consumers. This shift followed. Current contracts that include higher rates will need to be changed starting in November, the Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur) has stated.

2. Rules for free rapid coronavirus tests

The government has not yet confirmed the details of the coronavirus testing requirements that will apply after November 25, when the current restrictions will still be in effect. Right now, only a few groups are eligible for complimentary coronavirus fast testing. This includes persons who are medically unable to receive the vaccine, kids under the age of five, and staff members of hospitals and care facilities. The cost to get tested is 3 euros for those who do not meet the eligibility requirements but have come into touch with an infected person, have gotten a Corona Warn-App “high risk” signal, or would wish to test before a planned social event.

3. Telephonic sick notice is feasible

Patients can call their doctor’s office and request sick notes from them up until November 30. The goal of the policy’s initial implementation was to limit the coronavirus pandemic’s viral spread. Several times during the epidemic, most recently in August 2022—the window that is currently approaching an end—the policy was restored. The tool also allows patients to request a one-time, seven-day extension of their sick leave.

4. Visitors to hospital appointments are eligible for sick pay

Beginning November 1, anybody who misses work to accompany a handicapped friend or family to the hospital can request reimbursement for the missed pay from their health insurance. Applicants must present medical documentation demonstrating the need for the patient to always be accompanied by someone in order to be approved for financial assistance.

5. Price increase for motorway restroom services

Starting on November 18, Sanifair, a private corporation with 400 restrooms spread among service stations along German highways, will charge 1 euro instead of 70 cents for each visit.

6. Rising vet costs in Germany

From November 22, pet medical expenses in Germany will increase after 20 years of price stagnation. The modification follows the Bundesrat’s decision to modify the German veterinarians’ fee schedule in July. Depending on the service, prices will rise from 20% to 100%. Fees for vaccinating cats and dogs will increase from 5,73 to 11,50 euros.

7. Online Hauptversammlungen legally recognized

On November 1, online general meetings (Hauptversammlungen) will have the same legal standing as those held in person. The new regulations, which have been codified into German law, also describe how shareholders might now have additional rights to information. The phrase incorporates shareholder meetings. In the near future, it’s anticipated that the reform will also apply to cooperatives.

8. Germany introduces Netflix Basic with Ads

Even though a German television license (Rundfunkbeitrag) must be purchased, many Germans opt to use paid internet streaming services. Up until this point, Netflix has never had any ads. However, the site said last month that its new Basic with Ads subscription will go live in 12 more nations on November 3, including Germany.

9. Cancellation deadline for auto insurance contracts

In order to give their present provider enough notice, drivers who wish to switch their auto insurance in Germany for the coming year must terminate their contracts by November 30. The majority of Germans who have auto insurance are affected by this move since many insurance companies have contracts that expire at the start of 2023.

The aforementioned everything changes in Germany will be implemented at the beginning of November 2022 while taking the German public into consideration. I believe that these measures will unquestionably aid Germany’s citizens in resolving their crises.