Are you thinking about quitting your job or were you recently let go? Now is the time to get familiar with unemployment benefits in Germany.
Germany has a generous support program for the unemployed, which can be a saving grace if you want to resign or are faced with a choice that isn’t yours in that department.
Since moving to Germany, I’ve had a couple of encounters with the Bundesagentur für Arbeit. This post answers the most pressing FAQs I had, when, as a confused foreigner, I scrambled to get answers in English. As such, I hope to shed some light on your questions, too.
Please note that I am not a legal expert, nor am I in any way affiliated with the Bundesagentur für Arbeit. While the questions below are answered to the best of my knowledge, do not take them as legal facts.
So, let’s dive into the top FAQs regarding unemployment benefits in Germany in 2023.
Unemployment Benefits in Germany: FAQs in English
Who is eligible for unemployment benefits in Germany?
Good news: if you are registered in Germany (as in, your primary address is located in the country) and have a valid residence permit, you are eligible for unemployment benefits. This is true regardless of nationality.
Indeed, if you have worked in the country for more than 3 months, you are eligible to claim benefits while you look for your next role. Your particular situation will affect the type of financial aid you receive. More on that below.
If you have worked elsewhere in the EU and now live in Germany, you may also be eligible for unemployment benefits.
Thank you for this awesome and in depth article! A related topic would be how to get German language or professional training while on unemployment benefit.
Thanks. Well written. It should be noted that mortgages are not covered; only rent or only the interest payments on a mortgage are considered. So at present I am left with 50€ per month for food and essentials after mortgage and Nebenkosten and Internet.
Thank you for this article! The content is comprehensive and clear while being uplifting and encouraging in the uncertainty that unemployment brings. Much appreciated.
Thank you for the article gave me clarity on my own situation. Question though, as mentioned if I register on time at tge Arbeitsamt then my health insurance would be covered, what happens to the taxes that are usually paid from employment, would I have to pay for those out of pocket?