Housing Benefit for Foreigners

Entitlement to Housing Benefit for Non-Germans?

Yes, foreigners living in Duisburg can also have a legal entitlement to housing benefit. Housing benefit is a social benefit designed to make housing costs affordable for low-income households. Whether you are eligible depends largely on your residence status and your employment situation. The Housing Benefit Plus reform has also improved the possibilities for support here.

Requirements for Receiving Housing Benefit

To receive housing benefit as a foreigner in Duisburg, you must generally be entitled to reside in Germany. This is usually the case if you have a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis), a settlement permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis), or, as an EU citizen, a right to free movement. It is also important that you do not already receive other transfer benefits in which housing costs are already included (e.g., benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act).

Special Features for EU Citizens

Citizens from the European Union often find it easier: Due to the right to free movement, they are largely on an equal footing with German citizens when it comes to housing benefit, provided they work in Duisburg or have another form of residence right (e.g., as family members).