The German social system is one of the most generous in Europe. Even foreigners working in Germany can receive the local child benefit, known as Kindergeld. A huge advantage for foreign workers is the fact that this entitlement applies even if the children have not travelled to Germany with them and stayed at home. You will learn how to get the German child benefit in this blog.

The Kindergeld amount in 2026 is set at a fixed €259 a month for each child. With two children, the family budget increases by €518, and with three, it is a respectable sum of up to €777 a month. The German system is exceptional because, under certain conditions, the benefit can be claimed until the child turns 25, provided they are in continuous education or training for a profession.

You need to take into account that, in addition to German laws, European rules on the coordination of family benefits also apply. Experts can help you navigate them.

Who is entitled?

The basic condition for getting Kindergeld is that a parent works in Germany, is socially insured there for this reason, or has a registered residence there.

The entitlement exists even after the parents divorce and no longer live in the same household. In that case, the parent who has sole custody of the child has the primary right to the benefit. However, the situation of the other parent and their right to benefits in their home country are always strictly assessed.

What if the other parent stays at home?

It is very common for one parent to work in Germany while the other stays at home with the children. However, European laws do not allow you to receive the full amount of benefits in both countries at the same time. This does not mean you will lose money. Germany will simply pay the difference. This means that if you receive less for your children at home, the German authorities will pay the rest so that you always get the higher German amount in the end. But because every family is different, the authorities assess each application and situation individually.

How to apply for Kindergeld?

The official application is submitted to the relevant German authority, the Familienkasse. For cross-border applications, you must provide not only birth certificates and proof of residence, but also documents from your German employer and details of benefits in your home country. The good news is that the authority can pay the money up to six months retrospectively from the date of the application.

Make sure you provide the German authorities with true information and report any important changes. The Familienkasse tends to thoroughly check data in retrospect, and if facts are hidden, it will not only stop the benefit but also order its immediate repayment. This can cause a devastating financial burden for the family, which is why it is definitely worth leaving the whole process to experts who will help with the bureaucracy. The ProfiDeCon team will be happy to provide you with professional advice and help you process your German child benefit applications from start to finish.