Since the beginning of the new year, refugees in Germany have been facing new challenges and ways to adapt to new realities. Find out more about why it is important for Ukrainians in Germany to find a job as soon as possible, what is known about the possible abolition of Bürgergeld assistance, and how the changes will affect their future

Legal assistance on migration issues for Ukrainians in Ukraine and abroad

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As 2025 begins, Ukrainians living in Germany, particularly those who plan to stay there for a long time, may face new challenges. The reasons for this lie in changes in the economic situation, political processes in the country, and international events. For Ukrainians, employment becomes not only an economic necessity, but also a strategic step that will affect their future life.

New challenges for Ukrainians in Germany

Changes in the labor market

In 2022-2024, Germany emphasized the labor shortage. Companies were actively looking for employees, and Ukrainian refugees were seen as a partial solution to this problem. Most of them had higher education, which made them valuable candidates for skilled positions.

However, in late 2024, the situation began to change. Large companies announced massive staff reductions, and the labor shortage ceased to be a key issue. This means that competition in the labor market will increase, and Ukrainians need to act faster to avoid being at a disadvantage.

Political changes

In February 2025, Germany will hold early parliamentary elections, the results of which could have a serious impact on the lives of refugees. One of the issues that is being actively discussed is the possible abolition of Bürgergeld aid for Ukrainians. If this happens, those who have not managed to find a job risk being left without financial support.

International events

The unexpected overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria has intensified discussions about the return of Syrian refugees home. This may set a precedent that will affect the policy towards Ukrainian refugees, especially if the situation in Ukraine stabilizes.

Work as a key to integration

Ukrainians who are already working or actively looking for a job have an advantage. Employment not only allows them to provide for themselves financially, but also facilitates their integration into German society. Employers are interested in skilled workers, so Ukrainians should use their education and skills to stand out among other candidates.

Why should you not postpone your employment?

Language barriers

Those who have completed language courses have a better chance of getting a job in their specialty. However, you should not postpone your job search because you are afraid of language insecurity: many companies are ready to train new employees and support them.

Competition in the market

With the reduction of vacancies, competition is growing. Ukrainians need to act faster to take advantage of the opportunities.

Possible cancellation of aid

The loss of Bürgergeld can come as a shock to those who have no other sources of income. Work allows you to avoid financial dependence on the state.

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Recommendations for Ukrainians

Actively look for a job

Use all available resources: employment agencies, online platforms, recommendations from friends.

Expand your qualifications

If your education or experience is not enough to work in your specialty, consider additional training or retraining.

Be flexible

Start with a job that may be less prestigious, but will allow you to gain German experience and recommendations.

New realities of the German labor market and Ukrainian refugees

Since the second half of 2024, the situation on the German labor market has changed. If earlier the shortage of personnel was a key problem for German employers, now the priorities are shifting. Massive layoffs in a number of large companies are forcing the government and businesses to reconsider their approaches to employment. For Ukrainian refugees, this means the need to look for work even more actively, as competition is growing.

Massive layoffs and their impact on the labor market

In the fall of 2024, leading German companies began announcing large-scale layoffs. This was the result of a recession that lasted two years in a row and economic uncertainty. Layoffs at such giants as Volkswagen, Bosch, Ford, Thyssenkrupp, SAP, and others will affect tens of thousands of employees.

Although most of the cuts will be implemented gradually, it is already putting additional pressure on the labor market. A decrease in demand for workers and an increase in the number of laid-off employees with experience and qualifications are changing the balance of supply and demand for labor.

Implications for Ukrainian refugees in Germany

1. Fewer job vacancies

Fewer job vacancies mean that Ukrainians will have a harder time finding work, especially in the industries that have suffered the most layoffs, such as the automotive industry and manufacturing.

2. Increased competition

Thousands of skilled workers are entering the labor market who already have experience in Germany and speak the language at a high level. Ukrainians will have to compete for the same jobs as local specialists.

3. Reduced attention to refugee integration

The Federal Employment Agency can now focus less on employing refugees and more on supporting employees who have been laid off due to downsizing, especially those who have been living in Germany for a long time.

Ukrainian refugees in Germany should prepare for changes in migration policy

Deteriorating public sentiment

Against the backdrop of economic recession and massive layoffs in large companies in Germany, anxiety about the costs of supporting refugees is growing. The Integration Climate Index 2024 showed a change in public opinion: more and more people in the country see refugees, including Ukrainians, as a threat to economic well-being. This trend is worrisome because it changes political rhetoric about migrants and may affect the social support provided to refugees.

Hans Forländer, chairman of the Expert Council on Integration and Migration (SVR), notes that the growing dissatisfaction is not so much about the integration of foreigners into the labor market as about public spending on the maintenance of those who have not yet found a job. This means that the government under the new leadership may take a course of limiting assistance to refugees who have not found employment.

The impact of the Syrian precedent

Ukrainian refugees should pay attention to the debate on the return of Syrians that has erupted since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. The approach to Syrians could set a precedent for other refugee groups, including Ukrainians. If the situation in Ukraine stabilizes, the new German government is likely to reconsider the grounds for granting asylum. Even if it is not a direct requirement to return, Ukrainians who remain unemployed and unintegrated may lose access to social benefits.

It is noteworthy that such ideas are expressed not only by representatives of right-wing radical parties, but also by moderate politicians from the CDU/CSU. These parties, which have a high chance of leading the government after the early parliamentary elections in February 2025, are already advocating a tougher approach to migration policy.

Why is employment becoming critically important?

Financial independence

Ukrainian refugees who are employed are less dependent on social assistance. This not only reduces the risk of losing financial support, but also makes them more integrated and valuable to German society.

Stability in the long term

Employment gives refugees the opportunity to stay in Germany even in the event of changes in asylum policy. Employees who pay taxes are perceived by the government and society as part of the economy, not as a financial burden.

Reducing the risk of deportation

Even if refugee policies become stricter, those who work are less likely to be deported. Their contribution to the economy is a strong argument for extending their residence permit.

How to act in the face of change?

Accelerate integration

Ukrainians should make the most of language and vocational courses to adapt to the requirements of the labor market.

Registration with employment agencies

The Federal Employment Agency (BA) continues to assist refugees, although its priorities may change. Registration and active job search are key to receiving support.

Flexibility in choosing a job

The situation on the labor market is becoming more complicated, so Ukrainians should be prepared to accept a job that may not match their qualifications, but will be the first step towards professional development in Germany.

Preparing for changes in migration policy

Ukrainians should be prepared for possible stricter requirements for asylum or social assistance. Employment helps to avoid dependence on state support.

Massive layoffs in Germany and a decrease in the shortage of personnel put Ukrainian refugees in a difficult situation. For many, employment becomes not only a way to secure themselves financially, but also a necessity to avoid future risks. Quick decision-making, readiness to adapt and proactive job search are key success factors.

Looking for legal support on migration issues in Germany? Visit Ukraine's migration law experts will help you understand complex legal aspects, obtain a residence permit, maintain social benefits, or prepare for employment. Follow the link and get full support at every stage of your adaptation. With us, you can feel confident in your new country!

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