Germany has officially ended its open-border policy for undocumented migrants, marking a major turning point in the country’s immigration strategy. The policy, which had been in place since the 2015 refugee crisis, has been scrapped under the new government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

As of May 2025, German border police will now turn away migrants who attempt to enter the country illegally—unless they fall into vulnerable categories such as unaccompanied minors or pregnant women. The government has also announced the deployment of an additional 3,000 federal police officers, increasing the total border control personnel to 14,000.

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt emphasized that Germany will no longer serve as Europe’s primary destination for undocumented migrants. The policy shift comes in response to mounting concerns over national security and rising immigration numbers. Officials also indicated that deportations to countries like Syria may resume under revised guidelines.

In addition to border enforcement, the government plans to limit family reunification rights and apply stricter screening for asylum seekers. The new policy aims to regain public trust in the immigration system and reduce irregular migration into the country.