Reform of Section 24 in Germany: What Changes in Benefits and Social Support Await Ukrainians in 2026

Germany is changing the terms of social assistance for Ukrainians with temporary protection under §24. The new rules will affect the amount of benefits, medical care, and the procedure for calculating assistance—depending on the date of arrival in the country. Learn more about the planned reform and its implications for different categories of Ukrainians in Germany

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The German government plans to reform the social assistance system for Ukrainians who are in the country under temporary protection pursuant to §24. The new rules are expected to take effect on July 1, 2026, although the final adoption of the law could push that date back.

The main feature of the reform is the distinction between the conditions for those who arrived in Germany before April 2025 and those who arrived later.

Below, we explain exactly how benefits, medical care, and oversight by government agencies will change.

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Benefits for Ukrainians Who Arrived Before April 1, 2025

For this group, the reform does not entail significant changes to the amount of assistance or housing compensation. Payments will continue to be made by the Jobcenter. The main difference is the renaming of the program: instead of Bürgergeld, the assistance will be called Grundsicherungsgeld.

At the same time, the Jobcenter will tighten oversight of recipients’ activity. In particular, there will be a greater focus on job searches and mandatory attendance at scheduled appointments. In other words, the financial terms remain the same, but the requirements for integration into the labor market will become stricter.

Read more about German citizenship for Ukrainians and when refugees will be able to submit their applications here.

New rules for those who arrived after March 31, 2025

Ukrainians who arrived in Germany after that date will face the most significant changes. For them, a transition to a different social security model is planned, with a noticeable reduction in the level of support.

Key changes for this group:

• payments will be made by the Sozialamt instead of the Jobcenter;
• benefits will be calculated according to the rules applicable to asylum seekers;
• the base benefit amount may decrease from approximately €563 to €441;
• the Bezahlkarte—a special payment card with restrictions on cash withdrawals—will be introduced;
• comprehensive health insurance will be replaced by basic medical care.

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Temporary Protection and Documents: What Remains Unchanged

Despite the reform of social benefits, a number of important guarantees remain in effect. Temporary protection under §24 has been extended until March 4, 2027. Previously issued plastic residence permits (Aufenthaltstitel) are automatically renewed—there is no need to contact the Ausländerbehörde to have them replaced.

The right to official employment remains in effect for all Ukrainians with temporary protection, regardless of their date of arrival in Germany.

About Bürgergeld and vacation in Germany — read more at the link.

Regional Differences: Why Should You Verify Information Locally?

Keep in mind that certain aspects of the reform may vary by federal state. Before contacting the Sozialamt, Jobcenter, or other government agencies, it is recommended that you verify the current regulations in your region.

Need help with immigration issues in Germany?

An immigration lawyer from the Visit Ukraine portal can help you navigate all the changes in legislation and properly prepare your documents. The specialist will advise you on your specific situation—from social benefits to your legal residency status.

Schedule a consultation to get clear answers and protect your rights!

Reminder! In a previous article, we reported that Germany is introducing Grundsicherung effective July 1, 2026.

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