Bürgergeld and Vacation in Germany: How to Get Approval for Your Absence from the Jobcenter and Avoid Losing Your Benefits?

Bürgergeld recipients in Germany can go on vacation, but their benefits may be suspended if they do not get approval from the Jobcenter. Find out how many days you’re allowed to be absent, how to submit your request correctly, and what you shouldn’t do before receiving approval

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If you receive Bürgergeld in Germany and are planning a vacation, simply buying tickets isn’t enough. Before you leave, you must get approval for your absence from the Jobcenter. Violating this rule could result in your benefits being suspended and even a demand to repay funds you’ve already received.

See also: Germany is introducing Grundsicherung starting July 1, 2026—who is eligible, what the benefit amounts are, and when payments will be made.

How many days a year can you be absent without losing your Bürgergeld?

Bürgergeld recipients are entitled to up to 21 calendar days per year without losing their benefits. During this time, both the benefits themselves and health insurance coverage remain in effect.

But there is an important condition: the Jobcenter must approve the absence in advance. Without this approval, no trip is considered authorized — even if you are absent for fewer than 21 days. In addition, weekends and holidays are included in these 21 days — meaning every calendar day of absence counts, not just workdays.

If the trip lasts longer than 21 days, separate approval is required, which the Jobcenter may deny.

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How to Properly Get Approval for Your Absence from the Jobcenter: A Step-by-Step Guide

To avoid losing your benefits, you must complete several steps before purchasing tickets:

1. Fill out the “Anfrage zur Nichterreichbarkeit” form — a request for approval of unavailability.

2. Submit the application online via your Jobcenter account or in person at a branch.

3. Wait for written confirmation — verbal or informal confirmation is not sufficient.

Important: Do not purchase non-refundable tickets until you receive a written response from the Jobcenter. The decision is always up to the Jobcenter, and a denial is possible — especially if the application is submitted late or you have mandatory activities scheduled.

What Could Go Wrong: Risks While Waiting for a Decision

Even after submitting your application but before receiving a response, the Jobcenter may summon you to an appointment or a mandatory event. That’s why you should submit your application as early as possible, rather than just a few days before your trip.

After submitting your application, regularly check your personal account on the Jobcenter website and your email—a response may arrive at any time.

Tip: Ukrainians planning a trip abroad should arrange for health insurance in advance — you can apply for it online through Visit Ukraine.

What happens if you travel without the Jobcenter’s approval?

The consequences of an unauthorized absence can be serious:

● suspension of Bürgergeld payments for the duration of the absence;

● a requirement to repay funds already received during the period of unauthorized absence;

● issues during the verification of eligibility for benefits — this may affect your future receipt of Bürgergeld.

We remind you! Social benefits in Germany provide significant assistance to Ukrainians seeking temporary protection. However, to receive them, you must follow the established rules. Read about which violations can lead to a reduction in benefits.

Photo: 8photo / Freepik

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