From Wikinews, the free news source you can write!
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Germany has temporarily suspended family reunification rights for refugees with subsidiary protection status for two years in 2025. The new law aims to alleviate pressure on municipalities caused by increasing migration and family reunification requests. Meanwhile, simplifications have been introduced for family reunification of skilled workers; language requirements for spouses and minor children have been relaxed and integration support programs enhanced.
For those under subsidiary protection, family reunification is now only allowed in humanitarian exceptions. The surge in solo asylum seekers bringing their families has led to housing crises in many regions in 2023 and 2024. The German Foreign Office announced it will assess whether to extend the suspension period.
These developments mark a significant shift in Germany’s migration policy. Measures are also planned to facilitate faster entry of spouses and minor children, along with improved integration and social programs.