CDU Calls for Stricter Rules on Temporary Residence Permits
Alexander Throm, a CDU politician specializing in domestic policy, is calling for stricter rules governing the granting of temporary residence permits (Duldungen). He argues that it is currently too easy to remain in Germany with a temporary residence permit ( Tolerance permit ). “The process of issuing temporary residence permits by local immigration authorities must be made significantly more difficult,” Throm told *Bild*.
This call is based on recent figures from the federal government: As of the end of June 2026, a total of 258,845 people in Germany were required to leave the country. Of these, 199,271 had a “ Tolerance permit ” (decision to leave the country). This represents approximately 77 percent of the total.
Throm criticizes this figure and calls for stricter requirements for granting a Tolerance permit. However, the CDU politician did not explain exactly how these requirements would be tightened.
It is therefore important for individuals with temporary residence status to understand that the CDU politician’s proposal is, so far, merely a political suggestion. No legislative change has been adopted yet. There is also no concrete bill yet to tighten the rules governing temporary residence status.
For now, nothing will change for people with a “ Tolerance permit .” The conditions under which a “ Tolerance permit ” can be granted are set forth in the Residence Act (Sections 60a through 60d of the AufenthG). As long as the legislature does not amend these provisions, the immigration authorities must continue to apply the existing rules.
What is Tolerance permit?
A “ Tolerance permit ” is a temporary suspension of deportation. The legal basis for this is found in § 60a of the Residence Act (AufenthG). This means that a person subject to a “ Tolerance permit ” is required to leave the country, but the deportation may not—or cannot—be carried out at this time for various reasons.
It is important to note the difference between this and a residence permit: “Tolerance permit ” is not the same as “ Residence permit.” Individuals with “ ” status do not have a permanent right of residence in Germany. The obligation to leave the country remains in effect.
A “ Tolerance permit ” is usually granted only for a limited period of a few months. If the reason for the “ Tolerance permit ” continues to exist after that, it may be extended. If the reason no longer applies, the “ Tolerance permit ” may be revoked.
When do you get a Tolerance permit?
A " Tolerance permit " is granted when deportation is not possible for factual or legal reasons.
A valid reason exists if deportation cannot be carried out in practice. This may be the case, for example, if necessary travel documents are missing, the country of origin refuses to take the person back, or there are no suitable travel options available.
Alegal ground exists if deportation would violate German or European law. For example, the protection of marriage and family may play a role in this context. A serious illness may also prevent deportation if it renders the person unable to travel or would cause a significant deterioration in their health.
In addition, a special permit ( Tolerance permit ) may be granted for urgent personal reasons or in the public interest. Examples of such reasons include an upcoming surgery, graduation from school or completion of vocational training, or the need to be present for an important proceeding.
In addition, there are special types of temporary residence permits ( Tolerance permit). These include the training-based temporary residence permit under Section 60c of the Residence Act (AufenthG) and the employment-based temporary residence permit under Section 60d of the Residence Act (AufenthG).
A " Tolerance permit " (tolerated status) does not provide permanent security. Individuals with " " should therefore check early on whether they are eligible for a residence permit.
How can you transition from the " Tolerance permit " to a right of residence?
The Residence Act offers various options for transitioning from “Tolerance permit ” status to a lawful right of residence. Which path is possible depends heavily on the individual’s personal situation. However, there are several steps that individuals with “ ” status can take to improve their chances of obtaining a residence permit.
- Starting Training or Employment: A permanent job or vocational training can pave the way to a right of residence. Qualified individuals with “tolerated status” may, under certain conditions, obtain a residence permit for employment under Section 19d of the Residence Act (AufenthG). It is important that the employment or training has been approved by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees ( Foreigners' office ).
- Learning German: A good command of German can also increase a person’s chances of being granted the right to remain, as it demonstrates that the person has integrated linguistically in Germany.
- Establishing Identity: It is particularly important to establish your identity as early as possible and to cooperate in obtaining a passport or other necessary documents. Failure to cooperate can make it more difficult to obtain a legal right to remain.
- Do not commit any crimes: Criminal offenses can jeopardize your right to reside in the country. Even multiple minor convictions can be problematic.
- Proving integration: School attendance, vocational training, employment, volunteer work, and social contacts can demonstrate that a person is well integrated in Germany. Relevant evidence should be collected.
- Seek advice early on: Individuals with "tolerated" status should determine in a timely manner which residence permit is appropriate for them. An advisory center or a specialized law firm can assist with this.
By the way: Switching to a legitimate Residence permit is also important because periods spent on Tolerance permit do not count toward a later Settlement permit or Naturalization .
What does the CDU's proposal mean for those with temporary residence status?
For people with a " Tolerance permit ," the CDU's demand has no direct consequences for the time being. As long as no legislative changes are enacted, the current rules will continue to apply.
Nevertheless, it makes sense for individuals with “Tolerated Status” ( Tolerance permit ) to work toward securing a right to remain as early as possible—for example, through integration, learning the language, or obtaining a job or vocational training. This is because “Tolerated Status” is not the same as “ Residence permit ” and does not offer long-term security. A residence permit, on the other hand, provides a significantly more secure legal basis for living in Germany.
