CelinaGFacing domestic abuse is never easy, especially when you’re far from home in a new country. If you’re a Pakistani or Indian woman in Germany on a spouse visa, you might feel isolated or unsure about where to turn. But remember—you are not alone, and Germany has resources, support systems, and legal protections to help women in exactly this situation.
Here’s a straightforward guide on the steps you can take to get safe, supportive help right away.
In Immediate Danger? Call for Help Right Away
If you’re in an urgent situation and need immediate assistance, call the police at 110. Germany’s police are trained to handle domestic violence cases sensitively, and they’ll act quickly to ensure you’re safe.
If speaking English, Urdu, or Hindi is easier for you, there’s also a 24/7 Domestic Violence Helpline you can call:
- National Domestic Violence Helpline (Hilfetelefon Gewalt gegen Frauen): 08000 116 016
They have interpreters in multiple languages, including Urdu, Hindi, and English, so don’t hesitate to call—they’re there to help you through every step.
Know Your Rights: Germany’s Legal Protections for Women Facing Domestic Abuse
In Germany, you have the right to safety, regardless of your visa or marital status. If you’re experiencing abuse, there are steps you can take:
- Protection Orders: You can get a protection order (Schutzanordnung) against your abuser to prevent them from contacting you. Women’s shelters or local support groups can help with the paperwork.
- Independent Residence Permit: If your visa depends on your spouse but you’re in an abusive situation, you might qualify for an independent residence permit. This allows you to stay in Germany without depending on your spouse.
Women’s Shelters (Frauenhäuser): Safe Places to Stay
Women’s shelters, called Frauenhäuser in Germany, offer a safe place to stay if you need to leave your home urgently. These shelters provide privacy, security, and help with things like legal support and counseling.
To find a shelter near you, contact:
- Domestic Violence Helpline: 08000 116 016 (they can help connect you directly)
- Frauenhauskoordinierung e.V.: Visit the website here to search for shelters across Germany.
Support for Migrant Women: Legal and Emotional Help
Being a migrant woman facing abuse comes with unique challenges, and there are organizations in Germany that understand your cultural and language needs.
- Terre des Femmes: An organization dedicated to helping women in difficult situations, including migrant women. They offer support services and resources in multiple languages. Visit: www.frauenrechte.de
- Diakonie and Caritas: Both organizations offer general social support, including legal and psychological counseling. Many branches have multi-language support.
Find Legal Help: Know Your Rights
For legal help, especially if you have questions about residency or need guidance on protective measures, there are organizations offering free or affordable legal advice:
- Berliner Initiative gegen Gewalt an Frauen (BIG e.V.): They help women facing violence in Berlin and surrounding areas with counseling and legal information. Website: www.big-hotline.de
- Migrant Advisory Services: Almost every city in Germany has advisory centers for migrants (Migrationsberatung). They offer guidance and help, including with legal and residency questions.
Language Help and Cultural Support
Language should never be a barrier to your safety. German police, hospitals, and most helplines can arrange interpreters. The National Domestic Violence Helpline (08000 116 016) also offers multilingual support, including in Urdu and Hindi, so you can express your situation without language worries.
Helpful Resources and Contacts
- 24/7 National Domestic Violence Helpline (Hilfetelefon Gewalt gegen Frauen): 08000 116 016
Website - Frauenhauskoordinierung e.V.: Directory and support for shelters: Website
- BIG Hotline (Berlin): Specialized help for domestic violence cases in Berlin: Website
- Terre des Femmes: Support for women’s rights and migrant women’s issues: Website
You Deserve to Feel Safe
No matter what, remember that help is available, and you’re not alone in this. Abuse is never your fault, and you have a right to live safely and freely. If you’re experiencing domestic violence, reaching out is a sign of strength—and there are people ready to help you every step of the way.
Take that step today. Your future is worth it. For more help – get in touch.
