New rules for social support for Ukrainian refugees have been in effect in Germany since April 1, 2025. From now on, those who arrive after this date will no longer receive citizen’s allowance (Bürgergeld), which was previously the main source of financial support. Instead, they will be granted asylum seeker benefits (Asylbewerberleistungen), which are smaller in amount.
The monthly payment for single persons has been reduced from €563 to €441. The funds will be provided on cards with limited use. For those living in dormitories, the amounts are even lower — from €410 to €426. At the same time, the state will continue to pay for housing for refugees, but additional compensation for rent and utilities is no longer provided.
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The German authorities explain these changes by their desire to encourage refugees to seek work more actively and integrate more quickly. According to official data, only about 32% of Ukrainians currently in the country are employed. In total, more than 1.2 million Ukrainian citizens live in Germany.
Despite the reduction in payments, temporary protection for Ukrainians in EU countries has been extended until March 2026. At the same time, several European countries, including Germany, are gradually tightening the conditions of stay for refugees.
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