Germany Continues to Facilitate Voluntary Repatriation of Asylum Seekers to Syria and Third Countries
Despite the ongoing ban on forced deportations to Syria, the German Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community (Bamf) has announced the resumption of a voluntary repatriation program for asylum seekers. The initiative, known as the REAG/GARP-Program, aims to support individuals who wish to return to their country of origin or a third country that is willing to accept them.
Since January 13, 2025, the Bamf has been organizing free and voluntary departures for those who have chosen to return to their homeland or a third country. The program covers the costs of travel, provides a relocation grant and offers financial start-up assistance, as well as medical expenses in certain cases.
According to the Bamf, a total of 464 individuals have departed Germany with the support of the REAG/GARP-Program by the end of April this year. In addition, the ministry has been offering the option of voluntary departure with the support of the federal states since 2017.
After a successful departure, individuals can apply for a partial reimbursement of their travel costs from the relevant federal state, which is in turn refinanced by the Bamf. In 2024, the program affected 87 cases, while in 2023, it was involved in 75 cases, including the Bamf.