Software Engineer Moving to Germany from Philippines
This guide is specifically for a Filipino Software Engineer planning to relocate to Germany. It covers Philippines-specific banking, documents, visa process, and salary expectations.
For information only. Visa rules, banking regulations, and document requirements change frequently. All information is sourced from official government and banking sources and is accurate as of the date shown. Always verify your specific situation with the relevant embassy, bank, or a licensed immigration adviser before taking action.
Documents to Get Before Leaving Philippines
Start gathering these at least 8–12 weeks before your planned departure date.
Get an apostille from the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) in the Philippines for your diploma and transcripts before departure — the Philippine Embassy in Germany cannot issue apostilles for Philippine documents.
Apply for a police clearance certificate from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and get it apostilled.
Get a certification of no record from the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Obtain a medical certificate from a Philippine hospital or clinic and get it apostilled.
Get a certificate of good standing from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) if you're a licensed professional.
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Key financial steps before and after your move.
Notify the Philippine Social Security System (SSS) to stop contributions and apply for a refund.
Request a Certificate of No Objection from the SSS to use your SSS number in Germany.
Apply for a tax clearance certificate from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to avoid penalties.
Transfer your Pag-IBIG Fund to a German bank or keep it active for future use.
Update your TIN status with the BIR to reflect your change in status.
What to Close or Keep in Philippines
Close your Philippine bank account and transfer your funds to a German bank or keep it active for future use.
Keep your SSS (Social Security System) account active to benefit from the Germany-Philippines bilateral social security agreement, which covers retirement, disability, and survivorship benefits.
Transfer your health insurance to a German provider or keep your PhilHealth coverage active for future use.
Convert your Philippine driver's license to a German license or keep it as a non-EU license.
Keep your Philippine passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Germany.
Staying Connected with Philippines
Use remittance services like Western Union or MoneyGram to send money to the Philippines.
Contact the Philippine Embassy in Germany for assistance with documents and other concerns.
Choose a mobile carrier that offers international roaming or a prepaid plan with a Philippines SIM card.
Use social media or messaging apps to stay in touch with family and friends in the Philippines.
Consider opening a Philippine bank account online or through a mobile app to manage your finances remotely.
Complete Software Engineer Guide for Germany
This page covers Philippines-specific preparation. For the full guide including salary data, visa types, qualification recognition, and employer information:
Full GermanySoftware Engineer Guide →Also considering other European countries?
Dedicated /from-philippines/ pages for these destinations launch with Tier 2.