Practical guide
PD U2: German unemployment benefit while job seeking abroad
Source text as of 2 September 2026 · General information
With Agentur für Arbeit approval, Arbeitslosengeld I may continue temporarily while you seek work in another EU/EEA country or Switzerland. PD U2 proves this entitlement in the destination country.
Documents and information to prepare
- Proof of German unemployment registration and current benefit decision
- Application to export benefits, submitted before departure
- ID or passport
- Address and contact details in the destination country
- Planned departure date and destination country
- PD U2 issued by Agentur für Arbeit
- European Health Insurance Card and cover clarified with your health insurer
- After arrival: proof of registration with the local public employment service
- Evidence of job-seeking and attending appointments required abroad
Important to know
A 4-week waiting period usually applies before departure, but the agency may approve an earlier departure. Export normally lasts 3 months and may be extended on request to a maximum of 6 months. For uninterrupted payment, register abroad no later than the date on PD U2; the BA leaflet generally specifies no more than 6 days after departure.
Official sources and forms
Leaflet 20 · unemployment benefit and work abroadBA international information and formsThis guide provides general information. The institution or provider may request additional documents depending on your circumstances.