Elterngeld 2026: The Complete Guide for Immigrant Parents in Germany

Once your baby arrives, Elterngeld, or parental allowance, becomes one of the most important financial tools available to your family. It is designed to compensate for lost income while one or both parents take time off work to care for their newborn.

The Basics

Elterngeld replaces between 65% and 67% of your average net income from the 12 months before birth, up to a maximum of 1,800 euros per month. If your income was very low, the replacement rate can go up to 100%. There is also a minimum amount of 300 euros per month even if you had no income before birth.

What About Students?

Good news for students: even if you had little or no income before birth, you are still entitled to Elterngeld. The minimum rate of 300 euros per month applies to students, stay-at-home parents, and anyone without prior employment income. If you were working part-time alongside your studies, your Elterngeld will be calculated based on that income, potentially giving you more than the minimum. Students should also be aware that receiving Elterngeld does not affect BAföG eligibility for the first few months, but it is worth checking your specific situation with the Studierendenwerk.

How Long Can You Receive It?

• One parent can claim up to 12 months of Elterngeld

• If both parents share the leave, the family receives 14 months in total

• The additional 2 months are specifically reserved for the other partner, encouraging both parents to take parental leave

ElterngeldPlus: A Flexible Option

If you plan to return to work part-time after birth, ElterngeldPlus allows you to receive a smaller amount over a longer period, up to 28 months in some combinations. This is particularly useful for parents who want to ease back into work gradually.

How to Apply

Elterngeld is applied for through your local Elterngeldstelle, which is part of the Jugendamt or a designated state office. Applications can be submitted up to three months retroactively, but it is best to apply as early as possible. You will need your income tax statements, birth certificate, and employment details.

As an immigrant in Germany, applying for Elterngeld can feel daunting, especially if German isn't your first language. My tip: bring a German-speaking friend or contact your local Jugendamt most offices are very helpful and some have English-speaking staff.