Safety Tips for International Students in Germany

Germany is a safe country. It is one of the highly recognized countries in the Global Peace Index ranking. Indian students coming to study in Germany can rest assured that their years in Germany will be one full of safety, security and peacefulness.

Germany is one of the safest countries in Europe for international students. The environment is generally peaceful, and most areas are well-managed by local authorities. Germany has been ranked among the top 20 safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index. Cities like Munich and Heidelberg are particularly noted for their low crime rates and welcoming environments. 

Police in Germany are honest and ready to help when needed. In case of a police emergency, you can call 110. For any medical emergencies, one can call 112. If you have other problems, you can also contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Germany.

There is no big need to worry too much about safety in Germany. You can move around in cities or towns without any major risk. But still, it is better to be careful. Some small crimes like pickpocketing can happen, mostly in crowded areas. So it’s good to follow some safety tips for international students in Germany to avoid trouble.

Read: Top 10 Safest Cities in the World for Students in 2025-26

Germany Global Peace Index Ranking (2025)

Germany has been ranked 20th out of 163 countries on the Global Peace Index (GPI). For the uninformed, the Global Peace Index is a report by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) that measures global peacefulness in the world and the state of peace across three domains, the level of Societal Safety and Security, the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict, and the degree of Militarisation. A total of 163 countries are part of the study.

From the above data, we can safely conclude that Germany is a safe destination for international students looking to pursue higher education in the country. Candidates looking to study in Germany can check out the top universities in Germany on our website. 

Is Germany Safe for Indian Students?

Yes, Germany is one of the safest study-abroad destinations for Indian students looking to study abroad. The country has not experienced any major criminal activity over the past couple of years. However, it is always good to be safe than to be sorry. Provided below are safety tips for international students in Germany that could come in handy during their time in the country. 

How to stay safe in Germany?

No destination, big or small, is immune to the occasional pickpocketing or theft that we have all seen up close at some point in time. To stay safe in Germany, always look around and be aware, mostly in crowded places and during night time. Be careful of pickpockets or small thefts in busy streets, buses, or trains. Try not to carry too much cash with you, and be alert while using ATMs in Germany. It’s also good to keep your ID card or passport with you, because sometimes the German police may ask to check it

Personal Safety Tips in Germany 

• Always be conscious of your environment, especially in unfamiliar areas. Avoid distractions like excessive phone use while walking.
• Use well-lit and populated routes when commuting, particularly at night. Avoid isolated paths or parks after dark.
• When socializing, drink responsibly and avoid excessive intoxication that may impair your judgment.
• Candidates should be cautious while using the ATMs. Candidates are advised to be attentive and observant when handling money. You would not want your limited money to get stolen in a foreign land. As this would spell trouble for you. It is also advisable to not keep your belongings in one place. This is especially important when handling money and credit cards. Place them in different places, since you don’t want to lose your wallet and have nothing left on you.
• Although Germany has established itself as a peaceful country, international students are advised to avoid deserted streets or empty parks during the night. These are locations that can attract criminal activities.  
• Candidates are advised to take care of their personal belongings in crowded places and on public transport. While crimes are rare in Germany, pickpocketing is a common occurrence in Germany just like everywhere else.

Accommodation Safety Tips in Germany

Choosing a safe living environment is important for international students:

• Investigate potential neighborhoods for safety ratings and community reviews before committing to an accommodation.
• Look for secure locks on doors and windows, good lighting, and surveillance cameras when viewing potential housing.
• University residences often provide enhanced security measures such as ID card access, security personnel, and emergency services.
• Engage with fellow international students to share experiences and recommendations regarding safe housing options.

Transportation Safety Tips in Germany

Public transportation in Germany is efficient but requires caution:

• Always validate your ticket at authorized vendors.
• Remain alert while using public transport; keep an eye on your belongings.
• Avoid traveling alone late at night or on isolated routes.

Also Read: Public Transport Tips for International Students

Germany Emergency Helpline Numbers

It is important for international students to know the emergency numbers in Germany as it might come in handy at any point in time. International students are required to dial 112 to connect to the ambulance and fire brigade. They can also dial 110 to connect with the police. These calls can be made from any phone in Germany and are free of charge. And rest assured help will be on its way.

Contact the Police

The police in Germany are always patrolling the streets by foot, bike, motorcycle, or car. International students are encouraged to approach them in case of any assistance or call them without any hesitation whenever they need help.

Contact your Embassy or Consulate

Indian students can also get in touch with official representatives in the Indian embassy or the consulates across Germany to assist them in the best possible ways.

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Embassy of India in Germany

Address: Tiergartenstraße 17, 10785 Berlin, Germany

Hours: Monday - Friday from 9.00 hrs to 17.30 hrs | Closed on Sat-Sun & Holidays  

Contact: + 49 30 2579 50 (PABX) +49 30 2579 5101 (after office hours in case of emergency)

Fax: +49 30 2655 7000

Email:  amboffice.berlin@mea.gov.in, dcmoffice.berlin@mea.gov.in, def.berlin@mea.gov.in

Consulate General of the Republic of India - Frankfurt, Germany

Address: Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 26, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Hours: Monday - Friday from 9.00 hrs to 17.30 hrs | Closed on Sat-Sun & Holidays 

Contact: +49 69 153 00 50, +49 69 15300528/526 (after office hours)

Fax: +49 69 55 4125

Email: cgoffice.frankfurt@mea.gov.in, com.frankfurt@mea.gov.in, passport.frankfut@mea.gov.in

Consulate General of the Republic of India - Hamburg, Germany

Address: Graumannsweg 57, 22087 Hamburg, Germany

Hours: Monday - Friday from 9.00 hrs to 17.30 hrs | Closed on Sat-Sun & Holidays 

Contact: +49 40 338036

Fax: +49 40 323757

Email: cgihh@aol.com

Consulate General of the Republic of India - Munich, Germany

Address: Widenmayerstrasse 15, 80538 Munich, Germany

Hours: Monday - Friday from 9.00 hrs to 17.30 hrs | Closed on Sat-Sun & Holidays 

Contact: +49 89 21023920

Fax: +49 89 21023970

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Candidates can get in touch with us in the comments below. Indian students looking for assistance with admission to universities in Germany can get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors on our website.