Overview

• The Federal Employment Agency reports €270 million in Kindergeld was sent to foreign accounts from January to June 2025, up from €258 million a year earlier, out of €27.8 billion total paid.
• Most transfers go to accounts in EU neighbors such as Poland, Romania, the Czech Republic and France, though the agency notes account location does not prove where children live.
• Eligibility follows EU coordination rules and German law, covering those taxed or insured in Germany, including EU citizens, certain third‑country nationals under agreements, and recognized refugees.
• The monthly benefit is €255 per child in 2025, applications are fully digital with QR‑code welcome letters and BundID verification, and the coalition plans an application‑free process after births.
• Entitlement typically continues past age 18 up to 25 for schooling, training, study or registered job search, can extend further for disabilities starting before 25, and may be paid directly to adult children in defined cases.