Integration Grant; Applying at the Job Center

An integration subsidy may be paid if the employee you wish to hire is not yet able to perform at full capacity at the start of employment. For example, this may be because the person does not yet have the necessary professional experience and knowledge required for the job, and therefore the training period takes longer than usual. However, standard company-specific training is not eligible for funding.

The amount and duration of the subsidy depend on the individual case. The standard subsidy is limited to a maximum of 12 months and 50 percent of the employee’s wages. For certain groups of people (such as older adults or people with disabilities), a longer or higher subsidy may be available.

The integration subsidy is paid monthly in arrears as a subsidy toward wage costs. As a rule, the subsidy is based on the wages you actually pay. Your share of the total social security contribution is taken into account on a flat-rate basis.

The integration subsidy is paid only if it is necessary for the person’s vocational integration. You do not have a legal right to receive this subsidy.

Funding is excluded if you terminate an existing employment relationship in order to receive an integration subsidy. Funding is also not available if you wish to hire someone who has been employed by you for more than 3 months during the past 4 years and was subject to social insurance contributions during that time.

• You want to hire someone who is difficult to place in the job market.
• Initially, the employee’s performance is expected to be lower than usual.
• Financial compensation through the integration subsidy is necessary to ensure the employee’s long-term integration into the workforce.

You can apply for the integration subsidy online or by mail.

If you would like to submit your application by mail:

• Please contact your personal representative at the Employer Services department of the Employment Agency or the Job Center. There, you will receive the forms to fill out and instructions on the application process.
  • If you do not yet have a personal contact person, please call the toll-free Employer Hotline at 0800 4555520.
• Fill out the application completely and submit it to the Job Center.
• Submit all required documents online or later by mail.
• You will then receive a decision from the Job Center by mail.

If you would like to submit the application online:

• Register with the Federal Employment Agency as a business.
• Go to the Federal Employment Agency’s “eServices” online portal and follow the instructions.
• You can fill out the application directly online.
• The remaining steps in the process are the same as for the written application process.

There is no deadline. You must apply for the integration subsidy before you sign the employment contract with your new employee.

• Required document(s)
  
  • Completed questionnaire to assess eligibility for funding 
  • Application form
  • Employment contract

There are no costs involved.