Obtaining the WBS certification for reduced-cost housing in Germany
The Wohnberechtigungsschein, or WBS, is a crucial document for adults on a low income in Germany. This certificate grants access to subsidized or social housing, helping those in need find a suitable place to live.
To apply for a WBS, the applicant must meet certain requirements. Some municipalities may require the applicant to have been living there for two years, while others have no such restriction. The application process involves submitting an application form, proof of earnings from the last twelve months, a signed income report from your employer, a copy of your registration document, residency permit, and ID of everyone mentioned in the application.
The income threshold for a WBS varies from state to state. However, some states allow you to exceed the income threshold by up to 85 percent or more. Certain disability and child benefits can be deducted from your income, potentially making you eligible for a WBS.
When house-hunting, it's essential to look for ads that explicitly state that a WBS is required to rent the property and that match the specific WBS type you have. WBS A is for people with a particularly low income, and WBS B is for those whose income is below the threshold but not as low as A.
The differences between the various WBS certificates in the individual German federal states mainly lie in regional adaptation of training content, duration, formats, and specific local labor market demands. However, WBS certificates generally certify professional qualifications or further education and are often recognized with regional variations in emphasis but similar overall goals of improving employability and skills.
The WBS can be submitted at the local housing office (Wohnungsamt) or the social benefits office (Sozialamt), depending on the state. In urgent situations, an urgent WBS (with Dringlichkeitsstufe) can be applied for, which gives priority over others.
Those with permission to remain as part of the asylum process and those whose deportation has been temporarily suspended may also be eligible. It's important to note that the certificate is only valid in the state where it was issued, so if you move, you'll need to reapply.
The WBS is typically valid for one year from the date of issue and must be renewed after that. Adults on a low income who are residents in Germany can apply for a WBS. The maximum amount a single-person household can earn in Berlin on a standard WBS is €16,800 net annually, and this amount increases for larger households.
In some states, there may be a processing fee for applying for a Wohnberechtigungsschein, ranging from €5 to €40. The WBS flats are advertised on estate agent websites, classified platforms, and newspapers, and can be found on a specific German website.
Once you've found a flat and agreed with the landlord, you'll need to file an application for approval with the housing authority (Wohnungsamt), who will review it and grant approval if all requirements are met. Upon approval, you'll be granted access to subsidized or social housing, providing a stable home for you and your family.
