Families and expecting parents living in Germany are entitled to a range of benefits, which make it an attractive place to live.
However, each of these benefits comes with its own process and paperwork that can be very confusing at times.
But don’t worry, below we are listing all the available benefits (listed in the order that you will likely apply for them / receive them). Plus links to additional information for each of them, tailored to (expecting) parents in Berlin:
OBGYN & Midwife Care
Your public health insurance covers the appointments with your OBGYN and midwife during pregnancy and after birth, including the birth itself and your room and board in the hospital (if applicable). However, family rooms at the hospital are not covered and need to be paid privately.
Maternity protection in the workplace
As a pregnant employee, you benefit from special protection in the work place. They kick in once you announce your pregnancy to your employer.
Prenatal yoga and exercise classes
Your public health insurance also covers certified pregnancy exercise and yoga classes. See a list of English pregnancy yoga courses online and in different cities across Germany.
Birth preparation course
Your public health insurance will pay for the pregnant person's birth preparation courses. Unfortunately, the partner fees are not usually covered. Find out more about what to expect and where to find a "Geburtsvorbereitungskurs" in English.
Mutterschaftsgeld
This is the maternal monetary benefit most birthing persons will receive during the 6 weeks before and 8 weeks after the birth (depending on the type of health insurance you have). You need to apply at least 7 weeks before your due date. Learn more.
Elternzeit
This is the parental leave parents are entitled to for up to three years from their child's birth. You need to apply at least 7 weeks before the desired start date. Find out more.
Elterngeld
This is the parental monetary allowance parents are entitled to. You can only apply for this after your child is born but it’s a good idea to assemble as much of the required paperwork as you can beforehand. Learn more.
Kindergeld
This is the monetary allowance parents receive for each child. You will apply for this after your child is born. Learn more.
Postnatal health classes
Your health insurance will cover your certified postnatal exercise class (Rückbildungskurs). You can start your course from 6-8 weeks after giving birth but it's a good idea to sign up for one before baby arrives. Here's a list of English postnatal classes in Berlin.
Home help
If you require additional help during pregnancy or after the birth that no other person in your household can supply, you may be entitled to help (Haushaltshilfe) paid for by your health insurance.
Daycare (Kita) spot
In Berlin, all children aged 12 months or older are entitled to an (almost) free Kita spot for at least 5-7 hours per day. Start building your list before your baby is born. Learn more. Stay tuned for guides for other German cities
🐘 Need some 1-on-1 support to sort through all of these options and paperwork? Kietzee Guide Elodie Roux offers personalized consultations. Or book a spot in an upcoming webinar on the topic of "Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood - the German Way" with Gravidamiga.
