The German government has approved changes to the social assistance system for Ukrainian refugees, which will take effect in 2025.
This is reported by Kyiv24
New Rules for Ukrainian Refugees in Germany
The CDU/CSU and SPD parties, which are part of the ruling coalition, have reached an agreement on reforming support for Ukrainians seeking refuge in Germany. According to the updated rules, Ukrainians arriving in Germany after April 1, 2025, will no longer be entitled to extended social assistance. They will receive lower benefits at the level of asylum seekers.
Currently, there are about 1.1 million Ukrainian refugees in Germany. The basic assistance for them is €563 per month, with separate compensation for housing and heating costs. For those covered by the asylum seeker law, there is a provision of €196 for personal expenses and €245 for essential needs, including food and clothing — totaling €441 per month.
Reasons for Changes and Public Opinion
The reform is explained by the low employment rate of Ukrainians in Germany: authorities hope that reducing social benefits will encourage them to seek work more actively. According to the Federal Employment Agency, as of March 2025, 701,000 Ukrainians were entitled to receive “Bürgergeld” (citizen money), of which 502,000 were of working age between 15 and 66 years. Compared to last year, the number of recipients of this assistance has decreased by 4,300 people.
A study by the INSA Institute showed that the majority of German citizens oppose the payment of “Bürgergeld” to Ukrainian refugees and support the return of draft-age men to Ukraine. Only 17% of respondents believe that all Ukrainian refugees should be entitled to such assistance, while 66% are firmly against it. 7% have no clear position, and another 10% were unable to respond.
“When asked whether all Ukrainian refugees in Germany should receive citizen assistance, only 17 percent of respondents answered ‘yes’ or ‘rather yes.’ Two-thirds (66 percent) oppose this, answering ‘no’ unequivocally. Another seven percent of respondents said they do not care, while 10 percent could not answer.”
As of August 4, 2025, about 272,000 Ukrainian refugees are working in Germany and contributing to the social security system. Over the year, this figure has increased by 80,000 individuals, indicating a gradual integration of Ukrainians into the German labor market.