Study: Almost as many refugees as Germans have a job
The study shows that by 2024, around 64% of refugees who arrived in Germany ten years ago had found a job. By comparison, the rate for the overall population in the same year was only slightly higher at 70%.
Around 90 percent of employed refugees had a job subject to social insurance contributions - i.e. a job with an income of at least 556 euros per month. In 2023, only 34 percent received benefits according to the German Social Code II(citizen's income or basic income support).
The IAB researchers emphasize that this success cannot be taken for granted given the refugees' difficult starting conditions. Many refugees came to Germany without any language skills and with an insecure residence status. Added to this were the consequences of war and displacement.
Another hurdle: although many refugees had educational and professional qualifications, these were often difficult to use in Germany. The reason for this is the differences between the education systems in their countries of origin and the German system, which make it difficult for qualifications to be recognized.
Big differences between men and women
The greatest differences can be seen between the number of working women and men. In 2024, 76% of men had a job, but only 35% of refugee women. By comparison, the figure for the population as a whole is 72% for men and 69% for women.
According to the study, there are several reasons for this, including
- limited access to childcare in some cases
- lower educational qualifications
- later entry into language and integration courses
In addition, many women are more likely to work part-time and in mini-jobs. "The greatest potential for more employment lies with women," explains researcher Yuliya Kosyakova.
Income rises - but remains below average
The study also shows progress in terms of income. While the average income of refugees with a full-time job was 1,398 euros in 2016, it rose to 2,675 euros by 2023.
Nevertheless, this only corresponds to around 71% of the average income of other employees in Germany. This means that many refugees only earn just above the low-wage threshold.
However, the IAB study emphasizes that this is related to the age of many refugees. Many of the refugees at the time are young and still at the beginning of their careers. Further qualifications, recognition of professional qualifications and targeted further training are crucial for better opportunities.
Prejudices and bureaucracy - what obstacles do migrants face?
The study also names hurdles that have slowed down integration and delayed the start in the labor market. These include long asylum procedures, residency requirements and lengthy accommodation in refugee shelters as well as a lot of bureaucracy.
The study also shows a clear link between social sentiment and integration: in regions where refugees are less welcome, they are less likely to enter the labor market.
The state of health and the feeling of being welcome in Germany also have a measurable influence on opportunities on the labor market. "Our research shows: Where people feel welcome, they find work more quickly," says Kosyakova.
Study: Language and advice lead to integration
Language and qualification courses remain the most important factor for integration. General and job-related language courses and individual advice from job centers have been proven to increase the chances of finding work.
As the length of stay increases, the general conditions improve: Many refugees have now completed integration courses, completed their residence procedures and gained access to support measures. As a result, their participation in the labor market also increases step by step.
Conclusion: integration succeeds - but not for everyone equally
The results after ten years show that many refugees have made the leap into the labor market. The employment rate is only just below the average for Germany as a whole. The income trend is also positive - but remains below the average.
The gap between men and women remains clearly visible. While men are now employed at a similar rate to German employees, the employment rate for women is below 40 percent. This is where the researchers see the greatest potential.
The study makes it clear that integration is possible if the conditions are right. Quick access to language courses, secure Residence permit and the recognition of qualifications are crucial.
At the same time, the data shows that discrimination and structural barriers can still make it difficult to find work today.
