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Social benefits

Apply for housing if you are homeless

Placement in a municipal emergency shelter pursuant to regulatory provisions for individuals who are currently experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless.

Processing: 1 day
Success rate: 90.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Report to the Public Order Office

    Ideally before homelessness sets in, e.g., in the event of an impending eviction.

  2. 2

    Review of the Obligation to Provide Housing

    The municipality is required to prevent homelessness.

  3. 3

    Assignment of emergency housing

    Temporary housing, while searching for permanent housing.

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

1 day

Official: max. 1 day

Online application

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • Waited for the eviction date instead of contacting the Public Order Office in advance

Common reasons for rejection

  • Other reasonable accommodations are available

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

People who do not have a place to live, who are at risk of becoming homeless, or who are already homeless.

Income limit

The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. 1 day

Success rate

approx. 90.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • Waited for the eviction date instead of contacting the Public Order Office in advance

Common reasons for rejection

  • Other reasonable accommodations are available

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

Related services

Read more