🛡️ Refugee & Asylum Journey

From registration to asylum decision — step by step.

10 steps Official sources linked Last updated: June 2026
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Your roadmap

Follow these steps in order. Each step links to the relevant guide or official authority. Timelines are approximate.

Step-by-step roadmap

1
Register at border or BAMF
Register with Federal Police (Bundespolizei) or at first reception centre (Aufnahmeeinrichtung).
→ Day 1
2
Initial accommodation
Assigned to a Gemeinschaftsunterkunft (collective accommodation) while case is assessed.
Week 1
3
Biometric registration (EASY)
Fingerprints and photo taken. Receive Ankunftsnachweis (proof of arrival).
→ Week 1
4
Asylum application interview
Interview with BAMF. Bring all documents. Bring an interpreter or request one.
→ Month 1–6
5
Receive Aufenthaltsgestattung
Temporary permit while asylum case is reviewed. Required for most services.
→ Month 1
6
Legal aid
Contact Caritas, Diakonie, or AWO for free legal support during asylum process.
→ Immediately
7
Health care
Emergency medical care immediately available. Health insurance assigned after 15 months.
→ As needed
8
Language course
Integrationskurs free for recognised refugees. Apply at BAMF.
→ Month 1+
9
Work permit
Generally allowed to work after 3 months if application not from safe country of origin.
→ Month 3+
10
Asylum decision
Full refugee status, subsidiary protection, or rejection. Appeal possible within 2 weeks.
→ 3 months – 2 years