Background: What is a revocation proceeding?
In a revocation review proceeding, the BAMF determines whether a person is still entitled to protection status in Germany. The legal basis for this is Section 73b of the Asylum Act (AsylG). Different requirements apply depending on the type of protection—such as asylum, refugee status, subsidiary protection, or a national ban on deportation.
The BAMF may review a person’s protection status, among other reasons, if the situation in the country of origin has changed significantly, if the person has committed a serious crime, or if they have voluntarily returned to their country of origin. In the case of Syrian nationals, the review is often justified by the changed situation following the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024.
Important: The law expressly stipulates that every revocation must be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Therefore, an ongoing revocation review process does not automatically mean that protected status will be revoked.
Number of revocations to rise significantly in 2026
Since the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024, the BAMF has once again been conducting more frequent reviews to determine whether Syrian nationals continue to meet the requirements for protected status. According to various media reports, an average of 1,404 such proceedings have been conducted per month so far in 2026. This figure is thus roughly on par with that of 2025.
However, the outcome has changed significantly: In 2025, fewer than four percent of cases resulted in the revocation of protected status. This year, that figure stands at around 17 percent. In May 2026, protected status was even revoked in more than 30 percent of the cases reviewed. This is reported by *Der Spiegel*, citing data from the BAMF.
According to the BAMF, however, there is a reason for this increase: The agency is currently focusing primarily on cases involving Syrian nationals who have committed crimes in Germany. In such cases, it is more likely that their protected status will be revoked.
It is also important to note that there are currently about 500,000 Syrian nationals living in Germany with protected status. By comparison, the number of revocations to date remains low.
More Syrians Are Returning Voluntarily
In addition to revocation proceedings, the number of voluntary returnees is also on the rise. In 2025, 3,681 Syrians returned permanently to Syria with financial support from the federal government. In the first five months of 2026, the number had already reached 2,325. In May alone, 652 subsidized voluntary departures were recorded.
As of January 2025, Syrian nationals can once again apply for government assistance to return voluntarily to Syria. The programs cover travel expenses, among other things, and may also include financial assistance to help them get started.
As various media outlets reported in May, the federal government is considering increasing financial assistance for voluntary return. However, the amount of the assistance in the future and the eligibility requirements have not yet been determined.
What can those affected do now?
Important: Even though the BAMF is once again reviewing the protection status of Syrians in Germany more frequently, this does not automatically mean that their Residence permit will Residence permit . Each revocation proceeding is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Those affected have the opportunity to explain their personal situation and their need for protection.
The following points may help:
- Take letters from the BAMF seriously and observe deadlines
Anyone who receives a letter regarding the revocation review process should read it carefully and meet all specified deadlines. Missing deadlines can have a negative impact on the process. - Gather documentation regarding integration, language skills, employment, and education
Gather documents that prove your integration in Germany (language certificates, employment contracts, proof of vocational training or academic studies, and your children’s school records). Volunteer work can also be helpful.
Equally important are documents that demonstrate an ongoing need for protection (medical certificates, psychological evaluations, evidence of political activism, or documents regarding personal threats in Syria). - Explain Individual Grounds for Protection
Even though the general situation in Syria has changed, there may still be a need for protection in individual cases. For example, in cases of political persecution, membership in a minority group, or for health reasons. These circumstances should be documented as specifically and clearly as possible. - Avoid traveling to Syria
Voluntary travel to one’s country of origin may be interpreted as an indication that there is no longer a need for protection. Therefore, it is advisable Foreigners' office permission from the Foreigners' office before traveling. - Seek legal advice
Withdrawal procedures are complex. Qualified advice from specialized attorneys or experienced counseling centers can be crucial for avoiding mistakes and understanding your rights. - Know the Deadlines for Appeals
If the BAMF does in fact revoke a decision, it is possible to take legal action against it. Lawsuits against revocation notices are possible, but must be filed within short deadlines.
