Financial Support for Families

In Germany there is government financial aid for children. This is sometimes applicable with international guests on long terms stays. A general requirement is that one parent must pay income taxes. 

More information and support can be acquired at the Welcome Centre.

The Ministry of Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women, and Youth is in charge for the distribution of this financial aid.

Child allowance is paid up to a minimum age of 18 or, alternatively, up to the age of 25 if the dependent is undergoing schooling, training or higher education.

Child allowance is usually paid when the applicant is domiciled or normally resides in Germany. In addition, the child could be domiciled or normally reside in another EU member state, currently living in Germany. Applicants whose residence is abroad may become eligible for child allowance if they are unlimited income tax payers in Germany. 

For the first and second child, child allowance is 184 EUR per month; for the third child it is 190 EUR and for additional children the sum is 215 EUR.

Applications must be made in writing to the local Family Office ("Familienkasse").

If you are a citizen of a Member State of the EU, the EEA States, or Switzerland you are usually eligible for parental allowance if you  live in Germany.

Non-EU citizens are eligible for parental allowance if their residence in Germany is deemed permanent according to the type of residence title they possess and their access to the employment market. If you hold a settlement permit you automatically fulfil this requirement. If you hold a residence permit you only fulfil the requirements if you are also entitled to take up employment in Germany or have already worked here legally. Foreign parents who hold a residence permit for the purpose of studying or only in connection with a work permit for a specified maximum period are not eligible to receive parental allowance.