FDP inquiries into German immigration enforcement

In the German districts of Kreis Viersen and Recklinghausen, the FDP (Free Democratic Party) has raised concerns regarding immigration administration, specifically focusing on naturalization processes and the enforcement of deportation orders.

In Kreis Viersen, the FDP submitted inquiries to the district administration seeking data on naturalization applications, processing times, and the use of digital services. They also requested clarification on why approximately 650 individuals with a ‘Duldung’ (tolerated stay) have not been deported, citing potential issues with documentation, identity, or health and family concerns.

In Recklinghausen, the FDP has criticized a lack of transparency regarding deportation data. As of June 2026, 1,481 individuals in the district were required to leave, with 86 percent holding a ‘Duldung’ status. While some cases were attributed to medical or family reasons, 817 cases were listed under “other” or “diverse” reasons. FDP district chairman Mathias Richter argued that current state government responses are insufficient and has called for the responsibility for deportations to be transferred to the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.