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Federal Foreign Office

Migration is a life decision – get the facts first

True or false?

Will you be rescued after two hours in a rubber boat?

No

This is what smugglers promise, but: Rescue missions may not be where your boat is. Even if they were, your chances of being picked-up in time are extremely small – especially if smugglers leave your rubber boat drifting without a motor. The journey remains very dangerous and continues to cost thousands of lives.

True or false?

Will your life in Europe be easy?

No

You may have heard life is easy, but the reality is different: Many asylum seekers have to live in mass accommodation while awaiting their decision. A significant share of applications gets rejected and those migrants then have to leave Germany. Even if granted protection, life is expensive and it is hard to find a job. So why do many of the stories you hear sound so good?

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True or false?

Will you be returned by force if your asylum application has been rejected?

Yes

You will be returned by force if your asylum application is rejected and you do not return home voluntarily. In that case, you would also be banned from travelling to the Schengen area for a long period of time. You must also pay for the cost of your forced return.

True or false?

German universities are open to everyone?

No

Generally, universities in Germany are not open to everyone. While some schools may offer specific programmes of enrollment for migrants, a residence title is neccessary for the purpose of attending school.

True or false?

All children younger than 18 will be granted asylum?

No

Each case is treated and considered individually, no matter the age. In any case, age is not the crucial factor. There is no guarantee that a residence permit will be granted to children.

True or false?

Will you get by with your English in Germany?

No

German is the only language spoken in everyday life, by the public authorities and in most companies in Germany. There are very few job opportunities without a good command of German.

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True or false?

Will border patrols find you?

Yes

Both on land and at sea, countries outside of Europe have intensified their border patrols. Illegal border crossings into Europe frequently result in migrants being detained and unable to leave the country bordering on Europe. With most money gone, many migrants find themselves more vulnerable than ever before and without the option of a safe and affordable return home.

True or false?

Will people smugglers protect you on your journey?

No

Be aware that smugglers belong to organised criminal networks. All they really care about is earning money. Many won't care if you get hurt or die on the journey. If you plan on coming to Europe and Germany illegally, you're putting your life at risk.

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True or false?

Will your relatives have to pay to free you from capture?

Yes

Unfortunately, there are many places on the route towards Europe where people might take advantage of you. Kidnappings by criminals to demand ransom are common. They only let you go if your family pays for your freedom. The amount could be as high as the money you initially had available for the journey. Many migrants have experienced violence and extortion on their way. This may happen several times along your way.

True or false?

Will you get a welcome payment?

No

Contrary to rumours and misinformation deliberately spread by human traffickers, Germany does not provide a welcome payment. By spreading such lies, human traffickers just want to attract more clients. They knowingly put people’s lives in danger.

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