A significant proportion of Ukrainian refugees residing in Germany have secured employment
In early 2025, the employment rate among Ukrainian refugees in Germany reached approximately 35%, according to data from the Federal Employment Agency. This significant increase from the 22% employment reported in the second half of 2023 shows that many Ukrainian refugees are finding employment opportunities in the country.
As of May 2025, about 299,670 Ukrainian citizens were employed in Germany, with a majority being women (174,080) compared to men (125,590). This employment figure represents nearly 300,000 individuals who have integrated into the German workforce.
Single adults and single parents receiving Bürgergeld, a social benefit in Germany, receive €563 per month. As of April 2025, a total of 693,420 Ukrainian citizens in Germany were receiving Bürgergeld, with 413,290 being women and 280,120 being men. The number of Ukrainians aged 15 to 65 receiving Bürgergeld in April 2025 was 693,420. Children in Germany receiving Bürgergeld have payments that vary based on their age, ranging from €357 to €471.
Couples receiving Bürgergeld in Germany each receive €506. The reported data is from Germany's Federal Employment Agency, as reported by Ukrinform. In March 2025, the average monthly Bürgergeld payment was €882.
Regarding social benefits, Germany was considering or proposing measures to reduce or cancel social assistance for Ukrainian refugees by mid-2025. Ukrainian refugees received about 12% of all unemployment-related benefits paid in Germany in 2024. There are ongoing legal and policy discussions about lowering welfare benefits for new Ukrainian arrivals.
It's worth noting that unlike refugees of other nationalities, registered Ukrainian refugees in Germany do not face the risk of being turned away due to a shortage of shelter capacity, as is the case in the Netherlands. Registered Ukrainian refugees in Germany are eligible to reside legally, work, access social services, and enroll their children in school under temporary protection under §24 of the German Residence Act.
Studies indicate that Ukrainian refugees tend to prioritize better job opportunities over higher social benefits when choosing their host country. This highlights the importance of employment opportunities in the integration and residency decisions of Ukrainian refugees.
In Poland, refugee shelters for Ukrainians are gradually being phased out, suggesting that some Ukrainian refugees may be seeking employment opportunities in other European countries. The employment rate among Ukrainians in Germany slightly exceeds 33%, indicating that Germany offers attractive job opportunities for Ukrainian refugees.
References:
- Germany's Federal Employment Agency
- Ukrinform
- Deutsche Welle
- German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development
- International Organisation for Migration
The government is considering implementing measures to potentially reduce social assistance for Ukrainian refugees in Germany by mid-2025, signifying a possible examination of the financial aspect of their welfare. A significant number of Ukrainian refugees, approximately 299,670, have found employment in Germany's business sector as of May 2025, demonstrating the society's commitment to providing job opportunities.
