Germany tightens border controls from May 6: what Ukrainians need to know

Germany is tightening border controls from May 6, including turning back migrants and changing entry rules. Find out what Ukrainians need to know about the new restrictions and how to avoid problems when crossing the border

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From May 6, 2025, Germany will significantly tighten controls at its borders. This is the first major decision of the new government led by CDU representative Friedrich Merz, who is set to take office as chancellor on that day. The future head of the Chancellor's Office, Thorsten Frei, emphasized in an interview with the Funke media group that the goal of the changes is to effectively stop illegal migration and regain control of the situation.

Germany intends to return migrants at the border rather than after they enter the country, which significantly changes the approach to entry rules. What this means for Ukrainians planning to travel to Germany or transit through it is explained in detail below.

What will change when entering Germany from May 6: the main changes

● Increased personal checks at the borders. German police will step up checks at the borders with Poland, France, and Austria. Any attempt to enter the country illegally will be immediately stopped.

● Return of migrants without the right to cross the border. Anyone attempting to enter Germany illegally will be turned back at the border in coordination with neighboring countries. Negotiations are already underway with Austria, Poland, and France.

● Seeking asylum only in the first EU country. Under current EU law, a person must apply for asylum in the first country of entry into the EU. Germany will not consider such requests if the applicant has already been in another member state.

● Cases will only be considered at the EU's external borders. The main focus will now be on external border control, which means stricter controls at the first point of entry into the EU.

We reported on which Ukrainians Germany is returning to Poland and how many such citizens there are.

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What documents do Ukrainians need to legally enter Germany?

When entering Germany, Ukrainians must have a complete set of documents with them: a valid biometric passport, confirmation of the purpose of the trip (accommodation booking, tickets, invitation), as well as financial security for the duration of their stay. If the trip is for the purpose of study, work, business, or long-term residence, a visa and insurance are required. The need for additional documents depends on the purpose of entry.

For Ukrainians who have temporary protection in Germany or other EU countries, it is important to comply with the requirements of the country that provided protection and avoid unjustified travel without proper permission.

By the way, we talked about which German states will accept Ukrainian refugees in May 2025 in our previous article.

If you encounter problems while crossing the border or staying in Germany, or if you are unsure about your situation or need advice, please contact the immigration lawyers at Visit Ukraine. Our specialists will help you with:

● assessing your migration status;

● obtaining legal residence;

● preparing documents for crossing the border;

● obtaining a residence permit or asylum in the EU.

Remember: a clear understanding of the rules and timely legal support are the key to a safe trip and avoiding serious consequences.

We remind you! Germany plans to update the rules for payments to refugees from Ukraine. Instead of civil assistance, they will receive smaller amounts, like other asylum seekers. Read about who will be affected by the new rules and what amounts are provided for in our previous article.

Photo: logist.today

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