Germany Partially Reopens Integration Courses for Ukrainian Refugees and EU Nationals

The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) lifted the February 2026 suspension of voluntary admissions to integration courses on 1 August 2026. The partial reopening prioritises applicants with a residence permit from Ukraine, German citizens and EU nationals whose German language skills are insufficient for employment, and certain family members. Approvals remain subject to available funding and course capacity, leaving asylum‑seekers and holders of a toleration permit (Duldung) with little change.

Bremen’s state government played a key role in reversing the freeze. Senator Claudia Schilling, responsible for labour, social affairs, youth and integration, secured an increase in the integration budget, raising the contract with the Volkshochschule from €258,500 to €300,000 to create four additional courses for those still affected by the suspension. The state continues to advocate for broader eligibility and sustainable financing of integration courses across Germany.