Are academics from non-EU countries who are employed for a restricted period and pay social security contributions eligible for unemployment benefit when their contract comes to an end but their research work, for example, has not been completed? According to the Residence Act, foreign university graduates are entitled to remain in Germany for 18 months to search for employment.
Generally, you are eligible for unemployment benefit if you have accrued twelve months' contributions and are available to take up employment on the German employment market. How long you are available to take up employment on the German employment market depends on the length of your residence permit and the type of residence permit you held before applying to become a job seeker.
The 18-month term according to Section 20 Paragraph 2 of the Residence Act applies to foreigners who have successfully completed studies in Germany on the basis of a residence permit to receive academic qualification according to Sections 16b or 16c or following Section 18d.
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Last Update: 25 February 2026