The Pregnancy
Maternity Protection · Mutterschutz
Notify Your Employer
As soon as you know you're pregnant, you're legally protected from dismissal. Tell your employer, in writing, to activate Mutterschutz immediately.
36 Weeks of Pregnancy
Mutterschaftsgeld
Apply for maternity allowance through your health insurance. Covers six weeks before and eight weeks after birth. Don't wait, it takes time to process.
Recommended: at 30 weeks
Vaterschaftsanerkennung
Unmarried couples must formally acknowledge paternity at the Jugendamt before or after birth. Required for the child to carry the father's name or receive his benefits.
ASAP
The Midwife (Hebamme)
Midwives in Berlin are in very high demand. Start searching as soon as you get a positive test. Every insured person is entitled to a Hebamme, but availability is tight.
The First Weeks
Registering the Birth
Within 7 days of birth, you must register your child at the Standesamt (registry office) in the district where the birth took place. Bring your IDs, Geburtsurkunde from the hospital, and proof of address.
Guide to get the Birth CertificateElterngeld Application
Apply for Elterngeld (parental allowance) as soon as possible after birth. Payments can be backdated up to 3 months, but the sooner you apply the sooner the money arrives. You'll need the birth certificate to complete the form.
Calculate Your ElterngeldKindergeld (Child Benefit)
Kindergeld is a monthly payment (currently €255/month) from the Familienkasse for every child in Germany. Apply at any point, it can be backdated up to 6 months. There is no deadline, but don't leave money on the table.
Guide to apply for KindergeldChildcare & Kita
Step 1
Kita-Gutschein
The Kita-Gutschein is the Berlin government voucher that funds your child's Kita place. You apply for it at the Jugendamt in your district, usually from around 6 months of age. Without it, no Kita will accept your child.
Step 2
Kita Navigator
Berlin's official Kita Navigator is the online platform for finding and applying to Kitas. Register your interest early, some Kitas have waitlists of 1–2 years. The earlier you register, the better your chances.
The Legal Right to a Spot
Every child in Germany has a legal right to a Kita place from their first birthday. If the Jugendamt cannot find you a spot, they are legally obligated to help — including reimbursing private childcare costs. Know your rights.
Navigate Kita →