Unemployment

Munich's official website for qualified professionals and young talents from abroad.
Munich's official website for qualified professionals and young talents from abroad.

Did you lose your job? These are your next steps.

Getting unemployed can be scary – especially in a high-priced city like Munich. But there is good news: The state is aware of that fact and can provide guidance and support for re-employment. Find out more about steps to re-employment – and how to get help during your time without work in Munich.

Unemployed: This is how to proceed.

Are you already living in Munich – but struggling to make ends meet? The ”Munich Jobcenter“ can be your support system. They offer assistance to various groups:

The Jobcenter provides financial assistance and job search support for those in need. To benefit from Jobcenter services in Germany, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria. Firstly, you must be legally residing in Germany, and non-EU nationals typically require a long-term residence permit or permanent residency. You must also be unemployed or underemployed and actively seeking work.

If you fall into one of the mentioned categories, you may be eligible for “Citizen’s Allowance” (Bürgergeld). This benefit, formerly known as “Arbeitslosengeld II” or “Hartz IV,” provides financial support for you and your family. This benefit is intended to help individuals regain independence by supporting them financially while they seek employment.

Eligibility for Bürgergeld depends on various factors such as income, assets, household composition, and residency status. While Bürgergeld is available to a wide range of individuals, the key factor is having legal residence in Germany. Non-EU nationals typically need to have a long-term residence permit or permanent residency (e.g., Niederlassungserlaubnis).

The Jobcenter goes beyond financial support. Their dedicated staff will also help you search for a job that aligns with your skills. They may even cover the costs of German language courses or relevant training programs to enhance your employability.

The Jobcenter in Munich offers twelve social community centers. The ”Centre for Housing and Integration“ and the ”Specialist Office for Vocational Reintegration“ enable Munich’s clients to receive advice quickly and close to home. On their website, you will find basic information on work and training, support services and funding opportunities, basic benefits for job seekers, and education and participation for children and young people.

Before you apply, please take a moment to complete our Quick-Check.

If you are eligible after the quick-check, the registration form will become available.

Ready to get started?