Tightening of German Courses for Asylum Beneficiaries Announced

Integration Minister Claudia Plakolm (ÖVP) announced a stricter approach to mandatory German courses for asylum seekers on Thursday. In the future, social benefits may be reduced if courses are not attended. Plakolm cited similar regulations in Upper Austria or Lower Austria as a model, which she would like to see implemented nationwide. The new regulation is set to take effect from 2026, and Plakolm's department plans to present a ministerial proposal soon.

The initiative was already announced in the government program, which states that a mandatory integration program for those entitled to protection and asylum seekers with a high probability of staying will be introduced - including competency screening as well as values and German language instruction. The government program also foresees penalties, such as deductibles, if German courses are not passed.

"Those who want to live with us must become part of us"

Plakolm announced on Thursday at a press point in the Federal Chancellery that this initiative is to come into force from 2026. In the future, mere attendance in German courses will no longer be sufficient. If no German course is completed, deductibles and consequences such as the reduction of social benefits will apply. There will also be final exams on what has been learned, according to the minister. A "targeted approach to illiterates, especially from Syria and Afghanistan," is also planned, as stated in a written statement from Plakolm's office to the APA.

"Those who want to live with us must become part of us," said Plakolm. This includes learning the German language, striving for a job, and adhering to the "rules and values." "We expect this from everyone who wants a long-term perspective." Learning the German language will be a "very central component."

Decrease in Asylum Grants

Plakolm emphasized, with regard to declining asylum application numbers, that she expects less resource deployment. Compared to the previous year, the number of asylum grants is decreasing by two-thirds, and accordingly, the funds in the regular budget for 2025 and 2026 will also be adjusted, according to her office. With the new possibility of sanctions, it is also expected that fewer course offerings will be necessary. In 2024, budget funds of 60 million euros were planned, with an additional 67 million euros available as authorization. For the years 2025 and 2026, a total of 87 million euros each is available, said Plakolm.

When asked about the specific ideas regarding sanctions, the minister said she would present a proposal before the summer. "We are strongly oriented towards what we know as 'best practice' from the federal states." She referred to Upper Austria and Lower Austria, where up to 50 percent of social benefits are reduced if someone does not participate in the German or values courses, according to the minister.

(APA/Red)

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