According to data released by the North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) Refugee Ministry, 2,494 individuals were deported during the first half of 2025. This information emerged from a parliamentary inquiry response published by the Neue Ruhr/Neuen Rhein Zeitung (NRZ).
The ministry emphasized the state government’s commitment to ending residency permits and ensuring the lawful and consistent return of individuals posing risks or who have committed offenses. A statement underscored the importance of consistency in addressing those who challenge the state’s democratic values, way of life and open society.
Statistics from the Federal Police indicate that the five most frequent destination countries this year were Turkey (190 deportations), Serbia (184), Albania (182), Georgia (134) and North Macedonia (121). As of June 30, 2025, the Foreigners’ Central Register recorded a total of 53,646 individuals in NRW subject to deportation. However, the vast majority, numbering 44,590, currently hold a temporary right of residence – a “tolerated stay.
Responding to inquiries, the Refugee Ministry affirmed NRW’s dedication to a humanitarian, equitable and opportunity-driven refugee policy. The statement noted that a legal asylum process may, at its conclusion, result in a requirement to leave the country. Deportations and voluntary returns are therefore presented as integral components of the state’s migration policy.