Expert Info
on 2 Mar 2013
Hi everyone, I was born in Poland and lived in South Africa from the age of 3. I recently emigrated to Germany. Can I in any way claim any benefits from Germany while I am looking for a job here in Germany? I am new here so I would just like to know what I am entitled to as a Polish person in Germany. Thanks
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