Can I, as an EU citizen, apply for social assistance in Germany?
April 29, 2022 | 45,00 EUR | answered by Andreas Köhler
Dear lawyer,
My name is Alice Reuter and I am a citizen of the EU. I have been in a difficult financial situation for some time and I am wondering if as an EU citizen I can apply for social welfare in Germany.
Currently, I am unemployed and have no income. I have tried to establish myself in the job market, but so far without success. Additionally, I have no family in Germany who could support me.
My biggest concern is that without financial assistance, I will not be able to meet my basic needs and lead a dignified life. I am afraid of becoming homeless and ending up on the streets.
Therefore, my question to you is: Is there a possibility for me as an EU citizen to apply for social welfare in Germany? What requirements do I need to meet and what are the legal foundations? Are there any alternative support options that could be suitable for me?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Alice Reuter
Dear Mrs. Reuter,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the possibility of applying for social assistance in Germany as an EU citizen. I understand your situation and would like to help you further.
In principle, EU citizens who are lawfully residing in Germany have the opportunity to apply for social assistance under certain conditions. The legal basis for this can be found in the Social Code XII (SGB XII). It is regulated there that individuals who are usually residing in Germany and are in a situation of existential need are entitled to basic security in old age and in case of reduced earning capacity, as well as assistance for their livelihood.
In order to apply for social assistance in Germany as an EU citizen, you must first prove that you are lawfully residing in Germany. This means that you either have a right of residence (e.g. as an employee, self-employed person, student) or are lawfully residing in Germany for other reasons (e.g. as a jobseeker). Furthermore, you must prove that you are in a situation of existential need, i.e. that you are unable to support yourself financially.
It is important to note that applying for social assistance as an EU citizen may involve certain specificities. For example, you may be required to undergo certain integration measures or your social assistance benefits may be restricted due to your EU citizenship. Therefore, it is advisable to inform yourself in advance about your rights and obligations as an EU citizen in Germany.
In addition to social assistance, there are other support options that may be available to you. These include, for example, benefits under the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act if you are still in the asylum process, or benefits under the SGB II (Hartz IV) if you are capable of working.
I recommend that you contact a lawyer specializing in social law to discuss your specific situation and receive comprehensive advice. I am also available in my online consultation hours to personally answer your questions and assist you in applying for social assistance.
I hope that this information is helpful to you and wish you success in resolving your financial difficulties.
Best regards,
Andreas Köhler
Lawyer specializing in social law
