Arrival: Important information for refugees from Ukraine

Berlin welcomes you! Below you will find the most important information on entering Germany, residence status and assistance available to you.

• People who had to flee Ukraine are allowed to enter Germany without a visa. This applies both to Ukrainian citizens and to people of other nationalities who were in Ukraine on 24 February 2022 and fled. This applies throughout Germany, initially until 31 August 2022. If you do not want to work and if you do not need support (such as medical care or social benefits), you do not have to register or apply for a residence permit until 31 August.
• Ukrainian refugees can be granted war refugee status throughout the EU. An asylum application is therefore not necessary. Those who have not found permanent housing and need support must first report to the Arrival Centre at Tegel Airport. At the Arrival Centre, it is possible to get short-term accommodation and meals.
• At the Arrival Centre in Tegel, refugees are distributed among the federal states. This means that you can be sent from Berlin to another federal state. If you are distributed to another federal state, you can register and apply for benefits there. If you have relatives in Berlin, you will usually be allowed to stay.
• If you are assigned to Berlin and are registered as a war refugee in Berlin or have found a permanent place to stay in Berlin, you can apply for your temporary residence permit. You can do this in an online procedure. You can access the online application here.
• After registration, you are entitled to social benefits, medical care and a right of residence for an initial period of two years. You should apply for benefits at the social welfare office which is responsible for you. You should apply for your residence permit online.
• After you have filled out the online application for a residence permit, you are allowed to work. You are entitled to all rights and duties under German labour law.