Growing Delays in Asylum Appeals in Germany
After years of decreasing processing times, asylum appeals (Asylklagen) in Germany are now taking longer again, with average waiting periods rising across federal states. In the first half of 2026, appeal procedures lasted an average of 15.3 months, marking a reversal from the previous trend where durations had shortened over four years. Sachsen (Saxony) recorded the longest waiting times, with appeal procedures stretching over 20 months on average. However, delays significantly vary depending on the federal state where the case is being processed [Source 1].
Impact on Expats, International Students, and Foreign Workers
This increase in asylum appeal durations has practical implications for expats, international students, and foreign workers in Germany who are involved in or affected by asylum claims. Longer processing times mean extended uncertainty regarding legal status and access to work or study permits. Individuals awaiting decisions might face prolonged restrictions on employment, housing, or access to social benefits. Moreover, the variability in waiting times depending on location means that applicants in some states could expect to wait substantially longer, influencing choices about residence within Germany [Source 1] [Source 2].
The slower pace also places additional pressures on administrative courts, which are increasingly burdened by backlog, thereby potentially affecting related legal proceedings for foreigners [Source 6].
Context and Statistical Overview of Asylum Appeal Durations
The lengthening of asylum appeal durations follows a period of improvements which had been achieved through increased resources at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) since 2016. Despite these reforms, asylum claimants in 2026 faced a median wait of over a year for court decisions. Including all pending cases, as of June 2026, BAMF had 68,344 unprocessed asylum procedures. This backlog contributes to the prolonged timeline of appeals [Source 5] [Source 7].
The data indicates that the processing time for asylum cases varies not only by location but also by applicants’ country of origin. For example, shorter procedures are typical for applicants from countries classified as safe, such as Serbia and Kosovo [Source 5].
What Expats Should Consider
Expats and foreign residents involved in asylum proceedings or those affected indirectly should monitor developments closely. It is advisable to plan for longer waiting times when navigating administrative and legal processes concerning residence or asylum status. Seeking legal advice early and maintaining compliance with residence and work permit regulations during extended appeals is critical. Considering relocation to federal states with shorter waiting periods could be beneficial, although practical and personal circumstances vary.
Those who require detailed information on their specific case or expert legal support should consult recognized migration and legal counseling services in Germany.
For further reading, see the detailed report on the growing delays in asylum appeals at Tagesschau: https://www.tagesschau.de/inland/gesellschaft/migration-asyl-klagen-dauer-100.html [Source 1].
