Germany plans to introduce a separate status for Ukrainian refugees.

German Finance Minister Christian Lindner proposes to introduce a separate legal status for Ukrainian refugees, which will allow reducing social benefit expenses and facilitate their integration into the labor market. He believes it is necessary to consider the possibility of introducing a new support model for Ukrainian migrants. Instead of standard unemployment benefits, a system that combines payments for asylum seekers with tools for labor market integration, similar to "money for citizens," should be applied. Ukrainians will not require an asylum procedure but will have access to a program aimed at ensuring minimum living conditions and social participation, even without employment. Payments for asylum seekers will be lower than for citizens and will provide a lesser level of social protection, including access to medical services.

Increase in employment of Ukrainian refugees

According to the head of the German government agency Wolfgang Schmidt, the share of employed Ukrainian refugees in Germany increased from 23% to 29% over the last year. Germany is the country with the largest number of Ukrainians with temporary protection status - 1.11 million people, constituting 26.9% of the total in the EU.

Previously, it was reported that Germany plans to reduce financial support for Ukrainian refugees due to their slow integration into the labor market. From January 1, 2025, the amount of aid for refugees will be reduced by 30% over three months if they decline job offers. These measures aim to encourage cash assistance recipients to enter the workforce.