Ukrainians who apply for temporary protection in Germany after April 1, 2025, will receive social benefits in a smaller amount than those who arrived earlier. Instead of 563 euros per person, which is equivalent to the unemployment benefits for German citizens, newly arrived Ukrainians will receive 441 euros – the minimum subsistence level for all asylum seekers in the country.
This is reported by Finway
Legislative Changes Require Lengthy Coordination
To implement these changes, amendments need to be made to several laws regulating social protection and refugee status, as well as to subordinate legislation. These documents still need to be agreed upon at various levels – from federal to state and local. The Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs in Germany cannot currently specify the exact date when the changes will come into effect.
“The ministry is preparing for the legislative process. The goal is to approve the changes as soon as possible at a Cabinet meeting,” the agency stated.
Since the draft changes have not yet been submitted for consideration by the Bundestag, the decision-making process may take several months. At the same time, the ministry emphasizes that the government does not abandon its intention to categorize Ukrainian refugees into two groups. Those who arrived before April 1, 2025, will continue to enjoy full social protection, while those who arrive later will receive benefits on par with other foreign refugees.
Challenges for Local Communities and Potential Legal Disputes
The government aims to find a solution that minimizes the administrative burden on social protection authorities. Currently, benefits for unemployed Ukrainian refugees are covered by various funds, including subsidies from the federal budget. However, providing for newly arrived refugees through the standard procedure will become the responsibility of local communities, which may create an additional burden on their budgets.
Local authorities are concerned about the increase in bureaucratic burden and chaos due to the need for changes in the operations of “Job Centers” and social departments. Additionally, communities are tasked with organizing the accommodation of refugees in shelters or social housing, whereas previously Ukrainians could rent housing independently if they found suitable apartments at affordable prices. Newly arrived individuals will also lose their right to health insurance, which they previously received on par with Germans.
Particular concern arises over potential complaints and lawsuits from Ukrainian refugees who will lose part of their benefits. Experts believe that significant legal disputes may arise regarding housing rental issues for Ukrainians who arrived after April 1, 2025, and who have already signed contracts before the legislative changes. It is expected that the new rules will restrict the right to choose their place of residence and reduce housing allowances.
Lawyer Thomas Franz from Plagemann Rechtsanwälte noted that it is unlikely that Ukrainian refugees will have to return any “excess” benefits received after April 1. At the same time, he emphasized that once the standard lease termination periods expire, the issue of evicting people from housing may become relevant, especially when it comes to families with children – in such cases, it would contradict the principle of protecting the welfare of the child.