Ukrainians who received temporary protection in Germany can leave Ukraine under certain conditions. The main thing is to coordinate this with the employment center that provides benefits.
Short-term trips: up to three weeks
If you are planning a short trip lasting up to three weeks (21 calendar days), it is important to notify the Jobcenter in advance. After obtaining their consent, you can leave without losing your social benefits and remain registered in Germany.
Necessary steps:
- Report a trip: Notify the employment center 1-2 weeks before the planned departure. Specify the duration of the trip, approximate dates of departure and arrival, as well as the destination.
- Get confirmation: Wait for written consent from Jobcenter. This confirmation ensures that you will not lose social benefits during the trip.
Medium-term trips: from three weeks to six months
If you need to stay in Ukraine for more than three weeks, but not more than six months, the rules change slightly. Social benefits are only paid for three weeks, and you will need to reapply for further benefits after you return to Germany.
Necessary steps:
- Checking the type of residence: Make sure your residence permit is valid for the entire duration of your trip. If the validity period is expiring, submit an application for its extension.
- Application submission: Specify the duration of the trip and the purpose of the visit to the employment center. The application can be submitted by e-mail or in person.
- Re-application: After returning to Germany, you will need to reapply for social benefits. It is important to do this in time so as not to lose financial support.
Long-term trips: more than six months
If you plan to stay in Ukraine for more than six months, your residence permit may be canceled. However, the immigration authorities can extend this period if you can prove that your long absence is temporary.
Necessary steps:
- Report a long absence: Write a statement to the immigration authorities explaining the reasons and provide evidence of the temporary nature of your absence.
- Submission of documents: Prepare all the necessary documents confirming your temporary trip and send them to the relevant authorities.
Recommendations for refugees
To avoid problems, always inform the job center of your plans before leaving the country. This will help to avoid unpleasant surprises and preserve your rights to receive social benefits. Remember that timely notification and correct paperwork are key factors in maintaining your social support.
Because of:
- Plan ahead: Make sure you have all the necessary documents and confirmation before departure.
- Keep in touch: Stay in touch with the Jobcenter and the immigration authorities to keep up to date with any changes in the rules.
- Keep copies of: Keep copies of all applications submitted and responses received.
By following these recommendations, you will be able to keep social assistance from Germany and avoid possible problems when returning to Ukraine.
