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Residence & Migration

Apply for asylum

Submitting an asylum application to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) to be recognized as a refugee or a person entitled to asylum.

Processing: approx. 6 months
Success rate: 45.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Registering as an asylum seeker with the border control or immigration authorities

    Issuance of a certificate of arrival.

  2. 2

    Applying to the BAMF

    Hearing with a BAMF decision-maker regarding the grounds for asylum.

  3. 3

    Decision on the asylum application

    Granting, denial, or dismissal of the case.

Required documents

  • Travel documents / ID card

    If available, for identification purposes.

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 6 months

Official: max. approx. 3 months

Online application

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • • Application not filed immediately after entry
  • • Did not bring important documents regarding the country of origin

Common reasons for rejection

  • • No individual case of persecution has been substantiated
  • • Safe country of origin

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

People who wish to apply for protection from persecution in Germany.

Income limit

The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 6 months

Success rate

approx. 45.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Application not filed immediately after entry
  • •Did not bring important documents regarding the country of origin

Common reasons for rejection

  • •No individual case of persecution has been substantiated
  • •Safe country of origin

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 14 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

Questions & Answers

What happens after an asylum application is denied?▼

It is possible to file a lawsuit in administrative court. In certain cases, subsidiary protection or a ban on deportation may be granted.

Read more

Handle Apply for asylum online

Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.

Start online application