Schwimmkurs für Geflüchtete” program: Free swimming lessons in most federal states

“Schwimmkurs für Geflüchtete”: Free swimming lessons in most German federal states

Swimming is considered an essential life skill in Germany. However, many refugees and migrants—due to cultural backgrounds or previous life experiences—may not have learned it, which increases risk and can limit integration. For this reason, many cities and federal states offer “Schwimmkurs für Geflüchtete” programs: free swimming courses specifically for refugee adults and children, organized by clubs, municipalities, and volunteer associations.

Why are these courses important?

• Preventing drowning: Around half of refugees cannot swim, which is especially dangerous in summer (seitenwechsel-berlin.de).

• Supporting integration: They build self-confidence and enable refugees to join family outings and use public spaces more safely.

• Culturally protected settings: Women-only courses or courses for specific cultural groups provide an acceptable and comfortable environment.

Who benefits—and why are they open to different groups?
Courses are available for:

• Adult women from backgrounds where swimming with men is not acceptable, such as a course in Weil der Stadt (swr.de).

• Refugee youth and adults, for example the Wasserratten offer (wasserratten.eu).

• Groups suitable for people connected to LGBTQ+ communities and those without a German background, as in the Berlin Seitenwechsel program.

Examples from states and local centers

• Wasserratten: Swimming courses for refugees on request in Überlingen, for beginners and adults (wasserratten.eu).

• SWR – Weil der Stadt: A weekly women-only course, helping participants overcome fear and cultural barriers.

• Seitenwechsel Berlin: Free courses for BIPoC, refugees, and trans people in an inclusive environment.

• DLRG and local initiatives: Federal states such as Thuringia (Thüringen) offer “Seepferdchen” courses for migrants in places like Jena and Ilmenau, supported through Integration durch Sport.

How to join a course

• Contact your local refugee center or the Jugendamt to ask about available programs.

• Search via:

  • Websites of sports clubs and associations (such as Wasserratten, Seitenwechsel).

  • DOSB platforms under “Integration durch Sport”.

  • Local Bäderbetriebe or Schwimmschulen.

• Register by email or phone when a course is available.

• Attend weekly at the pool listed in the program (make sure whether it is women-only or open to all).

• Usually free of charge, but some courses may request a small contribution of about €1–€3 (wasserratten.eu, insuedthueringen.de, chrismon.de).

What makes these courses different from regular courses?

• They are social and educational, not profit-driven.

• They adapt to refugees’ needs culturally and linguistically.

• They often receive support from governmental and non-governmental bodies and have strong community backing.

• They frequently provide necessary equipment (caps, training aids).

Conclusion
“Schwimmkurs für Geflüchtete” programs are a golden opportunity to learn a life-saving skill and build a new culture of integration. Whether you are a newly arrived refugee or a member of civil society who wants to help, these initiatives open the door to learning and social safety—without high costs or cultural restrictions.

Start by checking with your local refugee center or relevant associations to find a course that fits your federal state. It is an essential step toward a safer, more stable life in Germany.

Editorial note
The website’s team of writers and editors aims to provide accurate information through extensive research and by consulting multiple sources. However, mistakes may occur or some information may not be fully confirmed. Please treat the information as initial guidance and always contact the responsible authorities for verified details.