Barrier-Free Life in Germany

Life is a unique journey for each of us, and on this journey, we all possess different characteristics and experiences. Sometimes, these differences can stem from long-term physical, mental, or emotional attributes. In Germany, such enduring conditions are defined as “disability,” and this definition encompasses not only physical limitations but also learning differences, chronic health issues, and mental well-being.

Disability is not a monolithic experience. Just like a fingerprint, it is unique to each individual and is assessed on a scale ranging from 20 to 100. This evaluation is conducted by a doctor, and as the degree of disability increases, the potential challenges in an individual’s daily life also grow. It is precisely at this point that Germany’s support mechanisms come into play.

In recent years, the concept of “neurodiversity” has significantly enriched our understanding of disability. This approach recognizes the existence of different brain structures as natural and valuable. Conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia are seen not as deficits but rather as different ways of perceiving the world and possessing unique talents. The aim is to understand and respect these differences instead of stigmatizing them, and to build an inclusive society where everyone can realize their full potential. For more information on this topic, you can explore the resources of NeuroDivers e.V.

The State’s Helping Hand: Support for Individuals with Disabilities

Germany offers a comprehensive support network to assist citizens with disabilities in overcoming life’s challenges. These supports are based on the principle of “compensation for disadvantages” and aim to ensure the equal and active participation of individuals with disabilities in society. Some of the fundamental supports provided within this framework include:

• Inclusive Healthcare: Addressing the specific medical needs arising from disability.
• Equal Opportunities in Employment: Support and accommodations during the job search process and in working life.
• Independence at Home: Assistance for individuals needing support with daily living activities.
• Support for Families: Aid to alleviate the burden on families with children who have disabilities.
• Freedom of Movement: Free use of public transportation.
• Future Security: The right to early retirement for individuals with disabilities who meet certain conditions.
• Financial Relief: Tax deductions based on the degree of disability.

However, it is important to remember that access to these supports depends on individual circumstances. The type and extent of support offered can vary for each person with a disability.

The Key to Accessing Support: The Disability ID Card

The first step in applying for state support is usually obtaining a “Disability ID Card” (Schwerbehindertenausweis). This card is generally issued to individuals with a disability degree of 50 or higher. The application process involves completing the relevant form and submitting it along with the necessary medical reports to the responsible welfare office. You can find the contact information for the office relevant to you at schwerbehindertenantrag.de.

If your degree of disability is below 50, do not worry. It may still be possible to receive support under certain conditions. In such cases, it is best to seek professional guidance from a counseling center. Adult migration advice centers or youth migration services can assist you in this regard. These centers have experts who speak various languages. Additionally, you can find specialized German-language counseling for individuals with disabilities at teilhabeberatung.de.

An Important Note: Your residence permit status does not prevent you from applying for a disability ID card. This means that you can apply for this card even if your asylum process is ongoing or if you have a “Duldung” (temporary suspension of deportation).

Information and Support Resources: Where to Turn?

To discover the counseling centers nearest to you, please visit our Local Information page. Here, you can specify your city and search for assistance with asylum, residency, disability, or legal matters. Remember that all counseling centers also offer support to individuals with disabilities. Whether you are an adult or under 27, there is a suitable counseling center for you. Furthermore, you can find specialized German-language counseling on disability issues at teilhabeberatung.de.

Five major national associations for individuals with disabilities across Germany can also provide you with valuable information and support. Through these associations, you can find detailed information and advice on daily life, law, work, health insurance, and many other topics (information is generally provided in German):

• German Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted (DBSV)
• Federal Association for Individuals with Physical and Multiple Disabilities (BVKM)
• Federal Association for Self-Help of Individuals with Physical Disabilities (BSK)
• German Association of the Deaf (Deutscher Gehörlosenbund)
• Federal Association for Lifelong Support for People with Intellectual Disabilities (Bundesvereinigung Lebenshilfe)

Accessibility for All: Parking Spaces and Toilets

Disabled parking spaces are reserved exclusively for individuals with a disability ID card and a special parking permit. This permit is usually granted to those with the annotation “aG” (exceptionally severely disabled) or “Bl” (blind). In some federal states, severely disabled individuals with the “G” and “B” markings may also receive this permit. Please note that parking in these spaces without the appropriate permit can result in penalties. An important detail: The person driving the vehicle does not necessarily have to be the individual with the disability; a caregiver can obtain this permit for a disabled relative, and the parking space can be used as long as that person is in the vehicle. You can inquire about the correct office for permit applications at your local municipality or city administration. Migration advice centers can also assist you with this.

Access to public disabled toilets is often provided via a “Euro key.” You can obtain this key from the Club Behinderter und ihrer Freunde (Club for the Disabled and their Friends). To be eligible, your disability ID card must have one of the following markings: “aG,” “B,” “H,” or “BL,” or the “G” marking with a disability degree of 70 or higher. The use of disabled toilets in restaurants or businesses is at the discretion of the owner, but generally, they should be accessible to those who genuinely need them.

Remember, our differences enrich us, and Germany offers various opportunities for individuals with disabilities to lead dignified and independent lives with this richness. Do not hesitate to seek information and claim your rights. You are not alone on this journey.