Who is affected by the restrictions – and who is not
This mainly affects people who are not legally entitled to an integration course but who have been able to participate voluntarily if there were places available. These include:
- Asylum seekers in the current procedure
- Individuals with a Tolerance permit
- Refugees from Ukraine with temporary protection under Section 24 of the Residence Act (AufenthG)
- Persons with a humanitarian residence permit pursuant to Section 25 (5) of the Residence Act (AufenthG ) and
- EU citizens.
These groups will no longer receive new approvals for integration courses from the BAMF in 2026.
Participation is only possible if another authority—such as the Foreigners' office — requires it. Or if the course is paid for entirely by the participant.
People who are legally entitled to an integration course are not affected. This includes recognized refugees, persons entitled to subsidiary protection, and persons with residence permits for employment purposes. Integration courses should remain accessible to these groups.
Financial reasons as the main cause
The BAMF cites financial reasons as the main reason for the admission freeze. In recent years, the number of participants and thus also the costs for integration courses have risen significantly. The measure is intended to ensure that the available funds are adhered to and that the financing of existing courses is secured.
This decision is likely to significantly restrict access to integration courses for many immigrants in 2026—especially for those who have previously participated in the courses on a voluntary basis.
