“Hannover AktivPass” and similar cards: Almost free sports for low-income families

In many German cities such as Hannover, low-income families are given the chance to take part in social, cultural, and sports life at symbolic costs through special support cards like the Hannover AktivPass. These cards are a real key to enabling families to register their children in sports clubs, attend events, and even visit swimming pools and museums—at low prices or completely free of charge.

What is the Hannover AktivPass?

The Hannover AktivPass is a card issued by the City of Hannover. It is granted to individuals and families who receive social benefits, such as:

• Bürgergeld (formerly Hartz IV)

• Sozialhilfe (social assistance)

• Wohngeld (housing benefit)

• Kinderzuschlag (additional child allowance)

• Benefits for asylum seekers under AsylbLG

The card is usually renewed every year and allows its holder to benefit from broad discounts across multiple areas: transport, culture, education, and sports.

What sports benefits does the card offer?

One of the most important advantages of the Hannover AktivPass is the ability to enroll children and young people in local sports clubs at almost no cost. Key benefits include:

• Reduced or free membership fees in partner sports clubs.

• Free or discounted entry to public swimming pools (such as Stadionbad, Vahrenwalder Bad, etc.).

• Discounts on summer courses and school-related sports activities.

• Priority access to places in city-run sports programs.

Are there similar cards in other German cities?

Yes. The idea of social cards that provide privileges in sports and culture is applied in many cities and federal states, for example:

• Berlin – “berlinpass”: Free or discounted access to clubs and swimming pools.

• Hamburg – “Hamburg Sozialkarte”: Discounts on sports activities and memberships.

• Munich – “München-Pass”: Support for the costs of clubs and sports facilities.

• Cologne – “Köln-Pass”: Wide-ranging discounts covering sports and culture.

Although the name and system may differ, the principle is the same: enabling everyone to do sports regardless of financial situation.

How do you get the Hannover AktivPass?

• Submit an application to the Bürgeramt or the responsible office in the city.

• Attach proof of eligibility for social support (a Bescheid from the Jobcenter or Sozialamt).

• Once approved, the card is issued to the applicant and is typically valid for 12 months.

• It can be renewed if the need continues.

Important: The card must be shown when registering at a club or buying a swimming pool ticket so the discount is applied automatically.

Why is this card important for children?

• It enables children to take part in organized sports activities, strengthening physical and mental health.

• It supports social integration, especially for children of refugees and migrants.

• It provides a structured and safe environment to develop skills and discover talents.

• It reduces the financial burden on families and opens the door to real equality of opportunity.

Does it replace other programs such as Bildung und Teilhabe?

In some cases, yes—especially if the sports club participates in the AktivPass system. In other situations, it is better to combine both forms of support:

• Use Bildung und Teilhabe to cover activity fees of up to 15 euros per month.

• Use the AktivPass to reduce registration fees or additional activities.

Combining both systems often ensures the maximum possible benefit for families.

Conclusion

The Hannover AktivPass and similar cards offer a golden opportunity for low-income families to keep their children active and involved in the city’s sports and social life. There is no need to give up sports because of financial circumstances: Germany’s social system provides solutions—what matters is knowing your rights and applying in time.

Editorial note

The website’s team of writers and editors strives to provide accurate information through extensive research and by consulting multiple sources when producing articles. However, mistakes may occur or some details may not be fully confirmed. Please consider the information in these articles as initial guidance and always contact the relevant authorities to obtain confirmed information.