Can I as an asylum seeker in Germany apply for social benefits?
January 8, 2022 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Adele Gerdes
Dear lawyer,
My name is Katja Niemeyer and I am an asylum seeker in Germany. I applied for asylum several months ago and am now waiting for a decision. During this waiting period, I am having difficulties supporting myself and am wondering if I can apply for social benefits as an asylum seeker.
Currently, I have no income and rely on the support of friends and acquaintances. This situation is very stressful for me and I am worried about the future. I am wondering if there are ways to receive financial assistance to cover my basic needs such as food, accommodation, and clothing.
I have heard that asylum seekers in Germany generally have the right to social benefits, but there is also a lot of conflicting information on the internet. I am confused and uncertain if I can actually apply for benefits and how the process works.
Could you please help me and explain if I can apply for social benefits as an asylum seeker in Germany? If so, what steps do I need to take and what documents are required? I would greatly appreciate your support and guidance.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Katja Niemeyer
Dear Mrs. Niemeyer,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the possibility of applying for social benefits as an asylum seeker in Germany. This is understandably of great importance in order to support yourself during the waiting period for a decision on your asylum application.
In general, asylum seekers in Germany are entitled to social benefits according to the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act (AsylbLG). This law regulates the specific benefits available to asylum seekers to support their livelihood. This includes benefits for accommodation, heating, nutrition, clothing, health, and personal hygiene.
To receive social benefits as an asylum seeker, you must submit an application to the relevant social welfare office. There, you will be informed about your entitlements and receive assistance with the application process. Usually, personal data such as your asylum application and residence permit, as well as information about your financial situation, will be required for the application.
It is important to note that the level of social benefits under the AsylbLG is lower than that of social benefits under the Social Code II (Hartz IV). This means that the benefits for asylum seekers may be lower than those for individuals receiving Hartz IV.
However, it is important that you do not feel alone and seek professional assistance. As an immigration lawyer, I am here to support you in this process and help you with the application for social benefits.
I recommend that you contact the relevant social welfare office promptly and submit an application for social benefits according to the AsylbLG. If you have any further questions or need help with the application process, please do not hesitate to contact me.
I hope that this information is helpful to you and wish you all the best for your future in Germany.
Sincerely,
Adele Gerdes, Attorney at Law
