Moving to Germany is the beginning of a new life, but one of the first and most challenging quests on this path is finding housing. Rental prices in large cities can be shocking, and competition for every apartment is huge. Fortunately, Germany has a social support system, and one of its most important tools is the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS), or certificate for the right to social housing. German bureaucracy may seem like an impregnable fortress, but don’t worry – in this article, we’ll break everything down and help you get the coveted key to affordable rent.
What is WBS and Who Needs It?
In simple terms, WBS is an official document that confirms your income does not exceed the established limit and you are eligible to apply for apartments built with state support. Such housing is significantly cheaper than market prices.
An important myth to dispel immediately: obtaining a WBS does not mean you will be immediately given the keys to an apartment. WBS is a license, your right to “join the queue” and participate in the “lottery” for social housing. The search for an apartment itself is the next, and often the most difficult, stage.
Who is Eligible for WBS? Check Yourself Against Three Main Points
To obtain a certificate, you must meet three main criteria.
1. Residence Status in Germany
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Citizens of Germany and EU countries have full rights.
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Citizens of other countries (including Ukraine, Belarus, etc.) must have a legal residence status (Aufenthaltstitel) that is expected to last at least 1 year from the date of application. Ukrainians residing in Germany under §24 of the Residence Act (AufenthG) are also eligible to apply for a WBS.
2. Combined Household Income (Einkommensgrenze)
This is the most important criterion. Your annual income must not exceed a certain amount, which depends on the federal state (Bundesland) and the number of family members. “Net” income after deducting taxes, social contributions, and certain other legally established deductions (e.g., for children or disability) is considered.
Important: Income limits are reviewed annually. Before applying, always check the current figures on your city’s website or at the housing authority (Wohnungsamt).
| Number of People in Family | Approximate Annual Income Limit (Berlin, 2024) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | ~ €16,800 |
| 2 people | ~ €25,200 |
| 2 people + 1 child | ~ €31,000 |
| Each additional family member | + ~ €5,800 |
Approximate annual income limits. Figures may vary in your federal state!
3. Household Size and Housing Area
The WBS is issued with a maximum area and number of rooms you are eligible for. This is done for fair housing distribution.
| Number of People | Approximate Area Standard | Number of Rooms |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | up to 50 m² | 1-2 |
| 2 people | up to 65 m² | 2-3 |
| 3 people | up to 80 m² | 3-4 |
| 4 people | up to 90 m² | 4-5 |
Estimated living space standards per family.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get a WBS
Step 1: Find the Right Authority
The local housing authority is responsible for issuing WBS. In different cities, it may have different names: Wohnungsamt, Amt für Wohnen, Bezirksamt. The easiest way to find it is to search on Google: “WBS beantragen [your city name]”.
Step 2: Gather the Documents
This is the most crucial stage. The list may vary slightly, but the basic set is almost always the same. Prepare everything in advance!
| Document (Russian) | Document (German) | Where to Get / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Completed Application | Antrag auf einen Wohnberechtigungsschein | Download from your Wohnungsamt website or get it in person. |
| Passports / ID Cards | Personalausweis / Reisepass | Copies of all family members who will live with you. |
| Residence Permit | Aufenthaltstitel | Copy of your plastic card or passport sticker. |
| Registration Certificate | Meldebescheinigung | Obtain from Bürgeramt. Must be current. |
| Income Statements | Einkommensnachweise | For the last 12 months. These can be Lohnabrechnungen (payslips), Bescheid from Jobcenter / Sozialamt, pension statement, etc. |
| Marriage/Birth Certificate | Heiratsurkunde / Geburtsurkunde | If applying as a family. |
| Pregnancy Certificate | Mutterpass | If expecting a child, this can increase your chances and area allowance. |
Tip: If you are unsure how to fill out the application form in German, seek help from migration counseling centers (Migrationsberatung) or volunteers. It’s free.
Step 3: Submit the Application
The collected set of documents can be submitted in person, sent by registered mail, or, in some cities, uploaded online through the public services portal. After submission, you just have to wait. Processing time can range from several weeks to several months.
WBS in Hand! What’s Next?
Congratulations! The first hurdle is cleared. The WBS certificate is valid for 1 year and only within the federal state where you received it. Now the active search for an apartment begins.
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Contact Municipal Housing Companies. Every major city has its own companies (Wohnungsbaugesellschaften) that manage a large portfolio of social housing. Look for companies like Vonovia, Deutsche Wohnen, Degewo (in Berlin), SAGA (in Hamburg) and join their waiting list.
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Monitor Real Estate Websites. On portals like ImmoScout24, Immowelt, Immonet, there is a special filter “WBS erforderlich” (WBS required). Enable it and check new listings daily.
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Prepare a “Tenant Application Folder” (Bewerbungsmappe). To stand out from dozens of other candidates, prepare a neat folder with documents:
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A short cover letter about yourself and your family.
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A copy of your WBS.
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Copies of passports and residence permits.
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Certificate of no rent arrears (Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung).
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Current Schufa extract (your credit history).
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Reality and Pitfalls
Let’s be honest: obtaining a WBS is only half the battle. In large cities like Berlin, Munich, or Hamburg, waiting for a suitable apartment can drag on for years. Competition is huge. Don’t get discouraged! Be as active as possible: write, call, regularly update your profile on the housing company websites. Your persistence is your main ally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can students get a WBS?
Yes, if they do not receive BAföG (state scholarship), which already covers housing costs, and their income is within the established limits.
What if I am rejected?
Carefully read the reason for rejection (Ablehnungsbescheid). Most often, it is due to exceeding the income limit or an incomplete set of documents. You can file an appeal (Widerspruch) within a month or reapply when your circumstances change.
Does the Jobcenter help in finding an apartment with a WBS?
The Jobcenter does not search for an apartment for you, but it approves its cost and can provide necessary certificates stating that you are a benefit recipient, which serves as a guarantee of timely payment for some landlords.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining a WBS and the subsequent search for social housing is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires patience, meticulousness in document collection, and a proactive stance. But do not be afraid of bureaucracy. WBS is a real and working tool that has already helped thousands of families in Germany find their home at a fair price. We hope our guide will make your path to it a little easier and clearer. Good luck!