Germany Implements Major Changes in November: Self-Determination Law and More

New legislation simplifies gender and name changes, introduces postal ID delivery, and economic identification numbers.

The Self-Determination Law, effective November 1, allows trans, intersex, and non-binary individuals to change their gender and name with a simple declaration at the registry office.
Starting November, German citizens can opt to receive official documents, including ID cards, by mail for a fee, eliminating the need for a visit to the local office.
A new economic identification number will be issued to businesses and self-employed individuals to streamline communication with authorities, with distribution expected to continue until 2026.
Drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras will be permitted year-round from November 20 to protect wildlife, such as fawns, from agricultural machinery.
Public bank employees are set to receive a salary increase of 11.5% over three stages, starting in November, following a new wage agreement negotiated by the Verdi union.