How to get a WBS (Wohnberechtigungsschein) step by step in Germany #
If you want to apply for social (subsidised) housing in Germany, you usually need a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). Here’s a quick guide that works in any federal state plus official links so you can apply the right way.
What is a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) in Germany? #
A WBS is the certificate that proves you are eligible to rent state subsidised flats (“Sozialwohnungen”). Social housing is organised by each federal state (Land), which is why rules and forms vary by location.
Who can get a WBS in Germany? (Eligibility & Income Limits) #
Most states require:
- Low or modest household income (limits differ by state).
- A valid residence permit, typically at least 1 year (applies to students and workers, too).
If you are not eligible for a WBS, you may still qualify for Wohngeld (housing benefit). You can test this with the official federal calculator: BMWSB Wohngeld-Plus calculator
Types of WBS: General vs specific housing permit #
- General WBS (“Allgemeiner WBS”): lets you apply for suitable social flats within the state (sometimes with exceptions in big cities).
- Specific/targeted WBS (“Gezielter WBS”): issued for one exact flat when a landlord asks for it.
Official examples: Bavaria and Schleswig-Holstein explain both variants. - Bavaria overview
- Schleswig-Holstein rules
Required documents for a WBS application in Germany #
Expect to provide (exact list varies by state):
- Passport/ID (+ residence permit if non-EU)
- Proof of income for all adults in the household (e.g., payslips, Jobcenter/Social Welfare confirmations)
- Registration certificate (Anmeldung)
- Family papers if relevant (marriage / children’s birth certificates)
How to apply for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) step by step #
Use the official portals below to find your local authority and file your application online, by email/post, or in person. The federal Bundesportal also routes you to the correct state office.
Bundesportal (DE)
Processing time for WBS applications in Germany #
Many offices decide within 2–6 weeks (varies by workload). If anything is missing, they will ask you for it.
How to use your WBS to find an apartment in Germany (WBS Wohnungen) #
With your WBS, apply to listings that say “nur mit WBS” or ask housing companies/landlords directly. Remember: a WBS enables you to rent subsidised housing but doesn’t guarantee a flat.
Validity period and costs of a WBS in Germany #
- Validity: Typically 1 year. (Example in state law: Hesse §17 HWoFG; Berlin service pages also state 1 year.)
- Fees: Some places charge a small fee (e.g., Siegen: €10), others are free (e.g., Bingen). Check your local page.
Official links to apply for WBS in every federal state Germany #
Use the link for your state, then follow the instructions or search “Wohnberechtigungsschein” on that portal.
Why rules differ by state (quick context) #
Social housing is a state responsibility. The federal government funds it, but Länder set and run their own programs and rules. That’s why eligibility, forms, and even fees differ.
Read a guide how to find accomodation in Germany
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