Refugee Admissions in Berlin Decline Significantly

In Berlin, the number of refugees admitted has seen a notable decrease since the start of the year compared to the previous year. According to the State Office for Refugee Affairs (LAF), a total of 1,761 asylum seekers were accepted from January to March 2025, reflecting a decrease of over 35%.

The primary countries of origin for these refugees include Vietnam, Moldova, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Syria. Additionally, the LAF reported that 1,722 individuals from Ukraine registered at the Tegel reception center during the same period, down from 2,611 a year earlier. Unlike many other refugees, these individuals do not need to apply for asylum.

The majority of refugees are housed in regular accommodations managed by the LAF, which include reception centers and communal facilities. Currently, 31,313 spaces are occupied, leaving 966 available. The Tegel reception and emergency shelter has the highest number of available spaces, with 3,401 occupied and 3,216 free.

Furthermore, 3,283 refugees are residing in hotels or hostels, with 438 spaces still available. In the temporary shelters located at Tempelhofer Feld, 1,262 places are occupied, with 257 remaining open, while 348 spots are filled at the reception center located at the southern grounds of the Karl-Bonhoeffer-Nervenklinik.

To address the ongoing need for accommodation, a new facility is set to open this summer. The renovation of a former senior citizen home on Sonnenallee is nearing completion and will soon be handed over to the LAF. This facility will include shower rooms, sanitary facilities, communal kitchens, dining areas, and recreational spaces.

Upon completion, the new center will offer 305 spaces for both families and individuals previously housed in reception centers or emergency shelters. Prior to its opening, a occupancy plan will be established, and the local community will be invited to an open house event to familiarize themselves with the facility.