No more citizen's income: What benefits do Ukrainians receive in other countries?
Germany is set to reduce financial support for Ukrainian refugees, replacing the current Bürgergeld (citizen’s income) with lower payments under the Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz (Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act), affecting new arrivals and future applicants.
Around 1.14 million Ukrainians currently live in Germany, with approximately 686,000 receiving basic income support. Under the existing system, individuals could receive €563 per month, but new payments are expected to be about 20 percent lower, with single individuals receiving roughly €441 depending on circumstances.
In Poland, refugees are granted residence rights and access to work, education, and healthcare, but there is no equivalent to Bürgergeld. Instead, families receive child benefits of about €180 per month per child, and limited assistance for illness. Employment rates among Ukrainians in Poland are significantly higher, reaching about 65 percent.
The Czech Republic also offers Ukrainians special visa status and access to healthcare and employment, though it lacks a comparable basic income scheme. About 70 percent of Ukrainian refugees there are employed, contributing significantly to the national economy, with hundreds of thousands integrated into the workforce.
Other European countries show varying approaches. Bulgaria and Romania provide limited or conditional support, often tied to employment, while Italy previously offered allowances that have since expired. France treats Ukrainian refugees the same as other asylum seekers, offering standard benefits without special provisions.
In Norway, refugees receive collective protection, though rules have tightened after parts of Ukraine were declared safe. Those who secure full-time employment and join integration programs may receive substantial annual support. Meanwhile, the Netherlands provides Leefgeld (living allowance), averaging €315 per month per person.
Belgium stands out with comparatively high social assistance, offering over €1,200 per month for individuals along with additional subsidies. Across Europe, however, employment rates among Ukrainian refugees tend to be higher than in Germany, highlighting differences in integration and labor market access policies.