How Ukrainians in Germany can obtain social housing with the WBS document

Ukrainians in Germany can apply for social housing, but for this, a special document — WBS is required. Without it, it is impossible to sign a rental agreement for such an apartment, even if it is available. This is reported by Relocate.

WBS in Germany: what it is and how it works

WBS (Wohnberechtigungsschein) — is a document that confirms the right to rent socially supported housing.

It does not guarantee an apartment, but only opens access to searching in the appropriate segment. Everything else depends on the availability of housing, competition, and waiting lists.

People with incomes within established limits can obtain WBS. A legal stay in Germany is also a mandatory condition.

Social housing in Germany: who can apply

Ukrainians with temporary protection under §24 AufenthG have the right to apply for social housing WBS.

Main requirements:

• valid residence permit

• official stay in the country

• household income within limits.

In some cases, the validity of documents is taken into account. If the residence permit is about to expire, its renewal may be required before applying.

How to obtain WBS: where to apply

Issuing is done through local authorities at the place of residence. These can be:

• Wohnungsamt

• Sozialamt

• city or district administration.

The specific institution depends on the federal state.

In different regions, the procedure has its own features:

• Berlin — application via Bezirksamt, there are online services and income tables

• Hamburg — online application available via Hamburg Service

• NRW — applications accepted in city administrations, the document is valid within the state

• Saxony — processing through local administration

• Bavaria — through Landratsamt or city authorities.

After submitting the application, it is necessary to provide income verification, usually for the last 12 months.

WBS has become one of the key tools for accessing affordable housing in Germany. However, even with this document, searching for an apartment can take time due to high demand and limited offers.

It should be noted that in Germany, rules for receiving social assistance have been tightened, which already affects Ukrainians with temporary protection. Now, refusing the offered job may lead to loss of benefits from the first instance.