Do you have to return to Syria? Here's how to protect your right to stay.
Should you return to Syria? Here’s how to protect your right to stay.
Many Syrians are afraid. The news often reports on deportations. But: There are ways for you to stay in Germany. We’ll show you what they are.
Your protected status may be revoked
Protective title = no permanent protection
If the political situation changes —and that is exactly what is currently being discussed— the authorities may revoke your protection status. It does not matter whether you have refugee status under Section 25(2)(3) or subsidiary protection under Section 25(2)(4).
A permanent right of residence may be revoked
The Settlement permit issued based on your title of protection. If the title of protection is revoked, the basis for the permit is also revoked—in two cases:
- Application still pending: If your protected status is revoked, your application will be suspended — Residence permit will first be Residence permit regarding your Residence permit .
- Already issued: Even a Settlement permit that has already been issued Settlement permit be revoked.
Naturalization also be suspended
If your protected status is revoked while your naturalization process is underway, the Naturalization will also Naturalization —because Residence permit must first Residence permit regarding your Residence permit .
There are only 3 ways
Naturalization
You will become a German citizen. No one can deport you anymore— for the rest of your life.
NaturalizationChange of purpose
You are exchanging your protected status for a residence permit of your own for work, training, or study. The new status cannot be revoked.
Check for a change in purposeSettlement permit
You will remain in Germany indefinitely. However, your protected status remains in effect—and may be revoked if the situation changes.
Settlement permitWhat really protects you?
| What is important? | Naturalization | Change of purpose | Settlement permit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protection from deportation to Syria | ✓ Complete | ✓ No protection title; cannot be withdrawn | ~ Remains, but can be withdrawn |
| Travel to Syria is possible | ✓ With a German passport | ✓ Yes, you won't lose your residency | ✗ You may lose your protected title |
| Bringing family to Germany | ✓ Easier with a German passport | ✓ The family comes along | ~ Possible, but more difficult |
| What do you need? | 5 years of residence, B1-level German, own income Do I meet these requirements? |
Job, vocational training, or college Do I qualify? |
5 years of residence + personal income Do I meet these requirements? |
The Benefits in Detail
Complete protection — for a lifetime
As a German citizen, no one can take away your right of residence. Not a government agency, not a change in the law, not a political debate.
Traveling to Syria with a German passport
Visit family, reconnect with your roots— without worrying about your visa status. You are traveling as a German citizen.
Making it easier for families to move to Germany
Family reunification will become easier and faster. Children Naturalization after Naturalization are automatically German citizens.
Voting Rights & Political Voice
You help decide who governs Germany. Your vote counts —in every federal, state, and local election.
Living and working across the EU
With a German passport, you can live, work, and study in all 27 EU countries. Without a visa, without any obstacles.
Dual citizenship
You will remain a Syrian citizen and become a German citizen. You do not have to surrender your Syrian passport.
Can you switch?
What type of Residence permit you currently Residence permit ?
You can find the section on your residence permit (the plastic card).
You will find: The paragraph number (which specifies the type of residence permit) on your residence card (the plastic card)
Dual citizenship for Syrians – will it be abolished?
What is being discussed?
CSU politician Stephan Mayer wants to ensure that Syrians no longer receive dual citizenship. He says: “If we’re talking about deporting Syrians, then they don’t need two passports.”
What are the current rules?
There is no bill. Dual citizenship has been enshrined in law since June 2024. That still applies. A rule applying only to Syrians would likely not be permitted—because the law states that all people must be treated equally.
What many people don't know
Even before 2024, Syrians could already have two passports. The law stated: If it is too difficult to surrender the old passport, then one may keep both. Syria is in the midst of a civil war—which is why it was too difficult for Syrians. Furthermore, recognized refugees were not required to surrender their old passports anyway.
Our recommendation
Don't wait. If you apply now, you'll be in a better position, no matter what the politicians decide.
These are the questions Syrian clients ask us most often
What is a change of purpose?
Can I be deported if I have refugee status?
Can I travel to Syria after changing the purpose of my trip?
Can my family come to Germany?
Will dual citizenship be abolished for Syrians?
What do I need to apply for the EU Blue Card?
How long does the Naturalization take?
Your Free test
The political situation can change at any time. Those who act now are in a better position. Find out in just 2 minutes which option is right for you.
Free Test – Find Out Your Options in Two Minutes
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