Since the fall of the Assad regime last December, 1.2 million people have already returned to Syria. According to the UN Humanitarian Coordinator, the majority of these are so-called internally displaced persons—885,000 people who had sought refuge in less embattled parts of the country and have now returned home. However, 302,000 refugees from abroad also returned.
In Germany and other European countries, there is a debate about whether and how quickly Syrian refugees should return. However, reports from Syrians who have already visited their old homeland (tun25031105) show that the situation in the country remains difficult. Many houses have been destroyed and there is great poverty. The German government is helping refugees from Syria to return. Anyone who wants to return can apply for start-up aid from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). Travel costs, a grant and start-up aid are financed—1000 euros per adult and 500 for children and young people. A family can thus receive up to 4000 euros. According to Mediendienst Integration, 464 refugees from Syria had left Germany for Syria under the REAG/GARP return assistance program by 15 April.
Politicians have recently been discussing the possibility of traveling to Syria for a fact-finding visit. Until now, this has been risky for all Syrians who have been recognized here as entitled to asylum or have another protection status. In the worst case, they were threatened with deportation (tun24122101) At the moment, only refugees who already have a German passport can travel to Syria without any risk to their residence status. BAMF statistics show that the risk is real: between November 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025, a total of 2,157 revocation proceedings were initiated due to temporary trips home to the country of origin. Of these, 734 cases concerned Syrians.
Refugees who have a settlement permit or a German passport can wait and see. There is currently no need for action for refugees with other residence statuses either, but their residence status will probably be reviewed once the situation in Syria has improved. The previous federal government had signaled that well-integrated Syrians who work in Germany and speak German should be able to stay. At the same time, criminals and dangerous individuals are to be deported.
Most refugees from Syria live in Germany with subsidiary protection (323,000) or as refugees (304,000). Comparatively few are entitled to asylum (4800).
The latest information on return assistance can be found at:
https://www.returningfromgermany.de/de/centres/
The Tübingen District Office also offers return counseling. (tun24121701)
https://www.kreis-tuebingen.de/soziales/migration+integration/rueckkehrberatung
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