Germany plans to change its policy on Ukrainian refugees: what to expect?

Germany intends to revise its policy on Ukrainian refugees, tightening the requirements for social benefits and employment. Find out what innovations Ukrainians can expect in the near future

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The German government announced the gradual abolition of the possibility of receiving social benefits without employment for Ukrainian refugees. In particular, the new rules will have the greatest impact on able-bodied persons who do not have valid reasons for unemployment. Officials emphasize that integration into society and employment are becoming key conditions for further stay in the country. And according to rfi, the first to be sent home may be those who do not work without a valid reason. Read more about the planned changes in the article below.

In our previous article, we described which German states will accept Ukrainians in March 2025.

Why is Germany tightening requirements for Ukrainian refugees?

More than 1.16 million Ukrainians are currently living in Germany with financial assistance. Adult refugees receive more than 500 euros per month, and families with children receive an additional 300 to 400 euros per child. At the same time, the level of employment among Ukrainians in Germany remains relatively low compared to Poland and the Czech Republic, where state support is much more modest.

According to official data, in 2024, about 300,000 Ukrainians were officially employed in Germany. The authorities emphasize that the country has reached the limit of its capacity to provide social assistance, so the emphasis is on stimulating employment.

By the way, it has recently become known that Germany is refusing entry to Ukrainians - we described who and why they were deployed at the border in a previous article.

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The main changes for Ukrainians in Germany

1. Work becomes a prerequisite. The German government plans to create more employment opportunities for Ukrainians, including easier access to the labor market and expanded job offers. At the same time, refugees who remain unemployed without good reason may lose their right to social benefits.

2. Programs for returning to Ukraine. Able-bodied Ukrainians who are unemployed will be offered to return to their homeland or move to regions of Ukraine where there is no fighting. This is expected to be organized through special state programs.

3. Reduction of educational opportunities. Free German language courses will remain available, but it will not be possible to take them again. Funding for other educational programs for refugees is also expected to be reduced.

How can Ukrainians prepare for the changes?

To avoid the risk of losing support, Ukrainians in Germany should take care of official employment or obtaining a status that allows them to stay in the country in advance. It is important to update your documents in a timely manner and know your rights.

If you are in Germany and need help with legalization, employment or returning to Ukraine, please contact Visit Ukraine lawyers. Our migration specialists will help you sort through the documents, find the best options for your stay and avoid legal problems.

We remind you! For the first time, Germany approved the extradition of a Ukrainian who refused military service. Read about the circumstances of the case, the court's decision and its implications for future extradition proceedings in our previous article.

Photo: Getty Images

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