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EU Financial Program for Voluntary Returnees Depleted
The crucial EU fund supporting voluntary returns for rejected asylum seekers, known as the European Reintegration Programme (EURP), has exhausted its budget three months before the end of 2026. This development was reported exclusively by WDR and NDR, revealing that no further individuals can be financially supported under this program this year. Both federal and state authorities in Germany were recently informed of the funding shortfall, indicating that currently no additional voluntary returnees can receive aid from this key financial source [Source 1].
Financial assistance through EURP is designed to facilitate the return of rejected asylum applicants to their countries of origin by covering travel expenses, start-up grants, social and psychological support, education, and help for reintegration, including employment and housing support. These services are critical for improving returnees’ prospects for sustainable reintegration after leaving Germany [Source 5].
Context and Effect on Voluntary Return Migration in Germany
In 2025, Germany saw over 30,000 confirmed cases of voluntary returns, with about half of those aided by financial support programs. Such assistance is a vital element in the controlled migration framework managed by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF), with the REAG/GARP program being the largest voluntary return initiative in Europe. The BAMF has been facilitating these returns since 1979, increasingly offering individualized reintegration packages in over 40 countries to support returnees in their transition [Source 4][Source 7].
Despite an increasing number of voluntary departures, with nearly 10,000 early in 2026, the depletion of the EURP fund could hinder both the number and quality of returnees’ reintegration efforts for the remainder of this year [Source 6]. Other related national programs like StarthilfePlus also provide financial aid, but the unexpected early exhaustion of EU funds raises concerns for continuity [Source 5].
Implications for Expats, Foreign Workers, and Asylum Seekers in Germany
This funding shortage directly affects foreign nationals in Germany who have been denied asylum and may be considering voluntary return. The key impact is that these individuals will not currently have access to financial and logistical support under the EURP, potentially increasing the costs and logistical challenges of returning to their home countries. Expats or international students working or residing in Germany are less directly affected, but should be aware of potential changes in the asylum support landscape. Those impacted should seek advice at return counseling centers or BAMF offices regarding alternative assistance programs or updated funding status [Source 1][Source 5].
Authorities may also revise practices or delay approvals for voluntary return assists until funding is replenished. This scenario underscores the importance for those planning voluntary departures to confirm the availability of financial support ahead of time and consider deadlines or bureaucratic processes that may become more complex. For detailed information and updates, the German Federal Ministry of the Interior website and BAMF resources provide regular guidance [Source 1][Source 5].
For further details, see the original report: tagesschau.de – EU Fund for Voluntary Returnees is Empty [Source 1].
