Social benefits for Polish expats in Germany

Hi Sebb,

Germany was once famour for its generous and comprehensive social welfare system but now due to a funding crisis caused by the country's ageing population and the global economic down turn social welfare has undergone some serious cuts.

As far as I am aware, it is only if you have previously been working in Germany and making contributions from your salary into a social insurance scheme would you be eligable for unemployment benefits. 

For those who are working in Germany, EU and non-EU expats, the employer and employee usually split the cost of these contributions.

I would say, its best to arrive in Germany with a bit of a nest egg to keep you afloat till you get a job. 

For some great tips on how to find a job in Germany, I suggest you take a look at our Working in Germany page. It gives you some useful information on the areas where there are a shortage of workers.

Hope this helps.Good luck.

Shantalie