Germany plans to tighten migration policy following the example of Denmark: what will change for Ukrainians and other migrants?

Germany is preparing to toughen its migration policy based on the model of Denmark. Find out how this may affect Ukrainian refugees, the asylum system and the labor market

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Germany has announced its intention to change its approach to migration, taking the Danish model as a model. This was announced by Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt after a meeting with his Danish counterpart, Minister of Migration Kaare Dubvad Beck, Bild reports. Such a course can significantly affect the situation in the country, including Ukrainians who are in Germany as refugees or plan to apply for protection.

What might change in Germany for refugees?

For several years now, Denmark has had one of the strictest migration policies in the European Union. In 2024, only about 2,300 asylum applications were filed in the country, an extremely low figure compared to European figures. This was achieved thanks to a clear, tightly controlled system:

● temporary residence permits instead of permanent status;

● minimum social benefits;

● strict registration of newly arrived migrants;

● deportation in case of violation of the rules;

● confiscation of valuables from asylum seekers before providing social assistance.

According to the official position of Copenhagen, these measures helped to avoid social tension and reduce the burden on the state budget, as well as to ensure better integration of those who really want to stay.

Several key changes are currently being discussed in Germany that may affect not only future migrants but also those already in the country. In particular:

● speeding up asylum procedures to reduce the burden on the system;

● processing applications outside the EU, for example, in third countries.

It should also be noted that Germany has recently announced a reduction in benefits for newly arrived Ukrainian refugees.

Will integration into the German labor market become mandatory?

Denmark pays special attention to the economic integration of migrants. As of 2024, 82% of able-bodied Ukrainians in Denmark are employed, which is one of the highest rates among EU countries. By comparison, only slightly more than 30% of Ukrainians who have been granted temporary protection are employed in Germany.

This fact was the subject of a separate analysis by the German authorities. The German government recognizes that the active involvement of migrants in the labor market not only reduces social costs but also promotes better understanding with the local population.

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Why might these changes affect Ukrainians?

Ukrainians currently enjoy the benefits of the EU Temporary Protection Directive, which allows them to live, work, and study freely in the EU. However, according to recent statements by politicians, the German government is preparing to update the conditions of stay even for those who have a protective status in order to promote active integration.

Ukrainians who plan to stay in Germany or are considering extending their stay after the expiration of temporary protection should prepare for the new requirements now. This may include applying for a residence permit on other grounds, such as work, study or business registration. We have described in more detail all the available options for transition from the 24th paragraph for Ukrainians in Germany in our previous article.

If you are not sure about your status and available legalization options, please contact Visit Ukraine's migration lawyers. Our specialists provide advice on legalization in the EU countries, in particular in Germany, as well as support in preparing documents and choosing the best strategy for your stay.

We remind you! Many Ukrainians are faced with the question of whether a Ukrainian citizen with a residence permit in another country can obtain temporary protection in Germany under §24. Read how Ukrainians should act in such a situation based on a real-life request to the Visit Ukraine migration lawyers.

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