More than 15,000 people who voluntarily left Germany with state support have returned since 2015, raising questions about the effectiveness of the government-funded return programs.
The figures were revealed in response to a parliamentary inquiry submitted by AfD Bundestag member Sebastian Münzenmaier.
The REAG/GARP program offers financial assistance to those required to leave Germany but lacking personal means, helping them return home.
Payments typically include a start-up allowance of €1,000 for adults and unaccompanied minors, €500 for children under 18, plus travel costs.
Family support caps at €4,000, with additional bonuses possible for early departures.
Data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Germany’s Central Register of Foreign Nationals (AZR) show a steady flow of returnees.
In 2015, 2,771 people returned, mainly from Serbia, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Albania. The numbers fluctuated over the years, peaking at 1,572 re-entires in 2022.
By August 2025, 344 had re-entered, including Georgians, Russians, North Macedonians, Turks, and Moldovans.
The government notes that a year-by-year breakdown of departures is unavailable, and the reported figures are based on the year of re-entry.
Many re-entries after receiving the bonus are likely unrecorded, suggesting the actual number may be higher than reported.
Münzenmaier slammed the program, saying: “Collect the exit bonus, leave Germany for a short time, and return shortly after. The federal government must finally take decisive action against the misuse of exit programs. A clear message is needed: Germany will not be exploited!”
He also urged the implementation of a strict re-entry ban supported by thorough border controls.
