If you’re an expat in Germany, you might have noticed talk about bunkers and shelters. Here’s what it means for you.
Germany is ramping up its civil defence system in a way not seen since the Cold War. By 2029, the government plans to double its shelter capacity, from 480,000 to over 1 million people. That’s still just around 1.2% of the population, but it’s a significant shift in how the country prepares for emergencies. This initiative is part of the larger Bunker & Shelter Expansion strategy.
This overhaul includes converting old Cold War-era bunkers, underground parking garages, metro tunnels, and even basements into secure public shelters. It’s part of a broader response to rising global tensions, particularly concerns about security in Europe following Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
For many expats, the idea of emergency bunkers may feel unsettling. But this isn’t about panic, it’s about being prepared. The goal is to create a sense of security and ensure that everyone, including newcomers, knows where to go and what to do in the event of a significant crisis.
Living abroad comes with enough unknowns. This civil defence update is about reducing uncertainty, not adding to it.
⚡️⚡️Germany is preparing for a major expansion of its network of bomb shelters
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) June 8, 2025
The country has around 2,000 Cold War-era shelters, but only 580 remain operational — enough to accommodate about 480,000 people, which is just 0.5% of the population.
Source: The Guardian pic.twitter.com/c6QNrj4tOS
Shelter Locations: Where Expats Can Find Safety
In Germany’s civil defence revamp, shelters aren’t hidden away in forests or military zones; they’re being placed right in the middle of city life. Think metro stations, underground parking garages, public tunnels, and Cold War bunkers re-opened and re-equipped.
For expats, this means many shelters are just steps from your daily routine.
The ongoing Bunker & Shelter Expansion aims to enhance the safety and preparedness of all residents in Germany.
- Berlin: U-Bahn stations, wie zum Beispiel Alexanderplatz, are being equipped to serve as emergency shelters.
- München: Look to S-Bahn hubs and underground garages around Marienplatz.
- Hamburg: Tunnels in Hafencity are part of the upgrade plan.
Today, Germany has 579 operational bunkers, down from about 2,000 during the Cold War. The new civil defense programme will add shelter space for an extra 520,000 people, bringing the total to 1 million by 2029.
To help people find these shelters quickly, the government is installing new blue-and-white signs across cities. You’ll start seeing them near transport hubs, office districts, and residential areas.
Tipp: Next time you’re on the U-Bahn, look for these signs; they could be your lifeline.
Emergency Alert Systems: Staying Informed in a Crisis
In an emergency, staying calm starts with staying informed. Germany has a system built to do just that, starting with the NINA app, developed by the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK).
NINA delivers real-time alerts on everything from severe weather to civil emergencies. It also includes shelter maps, tips on what to do in a crisis, and, importantly for expats, language support in English.
How to use it:
- Download the NINA app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- Enable push notifications to receive alerts instantly.
- Allow location access to receive updates relevant to your area.
In addition to the app, updated signage in public spaces, especially metro stations, now uses universal icons to point you toward the nearest shelter or emergency exit.
Reassure: Even if your German isn’t perfect, these tools are designed for everyone.
With security awareness on the rise, NINA app downloads increased by 25% in 2024. If you haven’t already, now’s the time to get it on your phone.
72-Hour Emergency Kit Checklist: Tailored for Expats
Shelter upgrades are essential, but space is limited. That’s why personal preparedness matters most. Having a 72-hour emergency kit ready can make all the difference if you need to shelter at home or evacuate quickly.
Here’s a quick-start checklist, tailored for everyday expat lifestyles:
For Families
- Drinking water: 2 L per person per day
- Non-perishable food (e.g, canned goods, energy bars)
- Baby supplies (diapers, wipes, formula)
- First aid kit + any prescription meds
- Printed contact list (local + abroad)
- Toys or comfort items for kids
For Renters
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Power bank (charged)
- Kopien von passport, visa, and lease
- Change of clothes + hygiene kit
- Small cash reserve (ATMs may be down)
For Digital Nomads
- Offline maps (Google Maps offline or printed)
- Laptop charger + USB adapter
- Emergency contacts in your home country
- Refillable water bottle
- Lightweight blanket or sleeping bag
Where to store it?
Keep your kit somewhere easy to grab, near your apartment exit or in the trunk of your car.
Looking for a printable version? [Insert link to downloadable checklist if available]
Nur 30% of German households currently have a full 72-hour emergency kit. Expats who prepare now can help raise that number and stay a step ahead.
Why Germany Is Acting Now: Context for Expats
Germany isn’t rebuilding bunkers because it expects war tomorrow. It’s acting now because of what could happen by the end of the decade.
Rising tensions with Russia, warnings from NATO, and a more volatile global landscape have prompted Berlin to reassess its civil defense strategy. NATO officials have openly said that a conflict involving the alliance could be possible by 2029. Germany is listening, and preparing..
The 🇩🇪 Cabinet has approved the draft federal budget for 2025. The defence budget will increase significantly by approx. €10 billion to €62.43 billion, with an additional €24 billion from the special fund for the #Bundeswehr, and thus a total of €86 billion this year. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/3i6c2dPbfy
— Germany at NATO (@GermanyNATO) June 24, 2025
In response, the government is investing €10 billion over the next four years, with another €30 billion planned long-term. The aim: upgrade shelters, harden infrastructure, and educate the public.
Across Europe, countries like Finland and Switzerland already have shelter space for over 80% of their populations. Germany, with a projected coverage rate of just 1.2% by 2029, is playing catch-up.
Still, the message is clear: this isn’t fear-mongering, it’s forward planning.
Reassure: This is a proactive step to protect everyone, including you.
In 2025, Germany’s defence spending reached 3.5% of GDP, to meet NATO’s 5% target in the coming years. That money is going toward both military and civilian resilience, because modern threats don’t stop at the battlefield.
Proactive Steps for Expats: How to Stay Prepared
Germany’s civil defence plan isn’t just a government project, it’s something we’re all part of. As an expat, there are simple steps you can take to feel more secure, informed, and ready.
Stay Informed
- Follow BBK (Federal Office of Civil Protection) for updates.
- Monitor local news Und expat forums; they often share alerts in English.
- Set alerts on the NINA app to get real-time info for your area.
Get Involved
- Look for preparedness workshops; many now offer sessions in English.
- Embassies and consulates often provide crisis checklists and safety info tailored for your nationality.
Plan Ahead
- Save emergency contacts, local and international, on paper and your phone.
- Walk to your nearest shelter sign or station with your family or flatmates. Knowing the route in advance helps.
- Practice a simple home evacuation plan. Just once is enough to make a difference.
Call to Action: Spend 30 minutes this week on your kit; it’s worth it.
Germany’s commitment to safety includes you. Taking these small steps will help you feel more confident, because preparedness is power, no matter where you’re from.
Conclusion: Prepared, Not Panicked
Germany has started work on A nation-wide network of air raid shelters for civilians.
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) November 26, 2024
Basements of public buildings, underground car parks and subway stations will be given dual-use functions.
Germany had such a network during the Cold War but it was dismantled in 2007 pic.twitter.com/R00FgEIK0X
Germany’s civil defense overhaul might feel like something out of the history books, but it’s designed for the world we live in today. For expats, this is not a reason to worry. It’s a reason to prepare.
Whether it’s spotting a shelter sign on your commute, downloading the NINA app, or packing a basic emergency kit, you have the tools to take control of your safety.
This is about readiness, not fear. And in Germany, you’re not on your own. The system is being built to include everyone, regardless of their origin.
Häufig gestellte Fragen (FAQ)
Do I need to register for a shelter spot?
No. Public shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis during an emergency. Shelter signs will guide you to the nearest location.
What if I don’t speak German?
The NINA app and BBK website offer English support. Emergency signs use universal symbols, and key alerts will be issued in multiple languages.
How will I know when to go to a shelter?
You’ll receive alerts via the NINA app, radio, or public announcements. Sirens may also be used in some areas.
Can tourists or short-term residents also use the shelters?
Yes. Civil protection measures in Germany cover alle people in the country during a crisis, whether you’re a resident, student, or visitor.
Is this connected to military conscription or war planning?
No. This is a civilian preparedness plan, focused on crisis response and public safety, not military action.
Your safety matters, wherever you’re from. Take a few small steps now, and you’ll be ready for whatever comes next.
German 
English 