The German Federal Statistical Office announced that the number of asylum seeker benefit recipients has risen to 522,700 in 2023, marking an 8% increase from 2022. This upward trend in beneficiaries continues, although the percentage growth is lower than the 22% increase reported in 2022 compared to 2021.
According to the Federal Statistical Office, 500,000 people received standard benefits in 2023 under the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act. Among them, 66% were male, 34% were female, and 28% were minors.
The report revealed the places of origin of asylum seekers in 2023. The majority came from Asian countries at 49%, followed by 31% from Europe and 15% from Africa.
The countries of origin for asylum seekers showed that Syria and Turkey were the most common, each accounting for 15% of all individuals eligible for asylum benefits. Following them, 11% of asylum seekers came from Afghanistan, 8% from Iraq, and 5% from Ukraine.
Under the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Law, asylum seekers who obtain a residence permit in Germany receive financial benefits significantly lower than those available to citizens. Single asylum seekers receive 460 euros, while those living in shared housing receive 413 euros. Beginning in 2024, the federal government, in agreement with state governments, will provide most benefits through a payment card, allowing cash payments only in very limited circumstances.
According to official statistics, 27,500 arrivals from Ukraine have received benefits under the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act. Additionally, since August 2022, Ukrainian refugees in need of assistance due to pregnancy or illness have been eligible for benefits established by the Social Security Act, which includes 13,000 individuals. New arrivals from Ukraine continue to receive benefits under the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act until their residence permits are issued.
