In Germany, there are a variety of ways to receive television service. Whichever you select, it's a legal requirement to pay your TV and Radio licensing fees to the Broadcasting Fee Service Centre. Since 2013, households are required to pay approximately 17.98 euros per month for TV in Germany.
Aerial TV
One of the more traditional ways to receive TV in Germany is via aerial, which provides a wide selection of German programmes, as well as foreign content at no extra charge. Aerials can either be set indoor or on the roof and if you rent, your landlord can confirm whether the house has a roof aerial already. A DVB-T decoder is also required and is found at most electrical stores. With an aerial, the picture quality and reception can fluctuate depending on your location and subsequently, it's advisable to speak to other users before purchasing.
Cable TV
Another method is via cable and Germany boasts an extensive cable network. Once again, renters should check with their landlord whether the house has cable access. Cable users are often required to pay a connection charge and a monthly subscription fee. However in return, cable providers offer access to a greater number of channels than an aerial service would and for an additional amount, some will give customers access to extra foreign networks.
Satellite TV
Similar to the aerial method, yet more reliable, is the satellite TV in Germany. To receive satellite television, you will need an antenna - which will be mounted on either the roof or outside of the property - and a receiver. Of course, renters are required to ask their landlord's permission before having an antenna installed. Another advantage of this method is that there is no monthly charge.
Internet Streaming TV
The most recent way of receiving television programming in Germany is via the internet. This method gives users access to over one hundred channels. Naturally however, this requires a fast and reliable internet connection.
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