The number of migrants voluntarily returning to their home countries with financial assistance from Germany increased significantly last year. In 2025, 16,576 people utilized the program offered by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (Bamf), a rise from 10,358 in 2024 and 10,762 in 2023.
Increased Returns to Syria and Turkey
Syria and Turkey were the primary destinations for those returning in 2025. The increase in returns to Syria is linked to the Bamf resuming its support for departures to the country in January 2025, after a period of suspension due to the civil war. By the end of December, 3,678 people had traveled to Syria with assistance.
Additionally, 4,432 people returned to Turkey, and 1,334 to Russia. Of the 16,000+ individuals who voluntarily departed, 6,394 were subject to deportation orders, while 7,302 held a residence permit valid during the asylum process, and 2,787 had a temporary residence permit. The number of people returning through programs offered by German states or independently is not tracked.
Financial Support for Voluntary Return
The “Reag-Garp-Program” – which stands for “Reintegration and Emigration Programme for Asylum-Seekers in Germany/Government Assisted Repatriation Programme” – covers travel costs and provides the financial assistance. A Bamf spokesperson noted “great interest” in the program for Syria, leading to longer processing times.
However, the number of voluntary returnees remains low relative to the number of Syrians currently in Germany. As of the end of November, 940,401 Syrians were residing in Germany, with over half having been granted protected status. More than half of those who arrived in Germany since 2015 are pursuing citizenship rather than return; a record 83,150 Syrians were naturalized in 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
What financial assistance is offered through the Reag-Garp-Program?
The Reag-Garp-Program covers flight costs and provides 1000 Euros per adult and 500 Euros per child as “starthilfe.”
Which countries saw the largest number of returns in 2025?
The primary destinations for voluntary returns in 2025 were Syria, with 3,678 people, and Turkey, with 4,432 people.
How many Syrians were residing in Germany at the end of November?
According to a request from the Left Party in the Bundestag, 940,401 Syrians were residing in Germany at the end of November.
As the situation in countries of origin evolves, and as integration pathways become more defined, it will be important to monitor whether the trend of increased voluntary returns continues, or if other factors – such as economic opportunities or changes in immigration policy – become more influential.