Europe Sees Sharp Decline in Asylum Applications in 2024

A young girl carries a smaller child in her arms while walking through a field near damaged structures and temporary shelters.
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The number of people seeking asylum in Europe dropped in 2024, showing a clear change in migration trends. Some view this as a step forward in handling migration, while others worry that tougher policies may be keeping out those who need help.

Fewer asylum applications across Europe

Asylum applications in the European Union (EU) fell by 12% in 2024 compared to 2023. The European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) recorded just over 1 million initial applications, down from 1.14 million the previous year.

Germany, the top destination for asylum seekers, received 235,925 applications, making up nearly a quarter of the EU total. This was a 30.2% decrease from 2023.

Spain received the second-highest number of applications at 165,398, followed by France with 158,512 and Italy with 154,824.

In contrast, Hungary reported only 29 applications for the entire year, reflecting its strict immigration policies and ongoing conflicts with EU leaders over migration.

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Germany still most popular destination

Germany remained the top host country for asylum seekers, despite a significant drop in applications. Most applicants came from conflict-affected or unstable countries such as Syria, Afghanistan, Venezuela, and Turkey.

In Germany, Syrians accounted for 15% of applications, followed by Afghans at 8.7% and Venezuelans at 7.3%.

The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) reported that stricter border controls and fewer irregular migration routes contributed to the decline. Still, Germany’s central role in migration keeps it at the center of European immigration discussions.

Ukrainian refugees receive extended support

Meanwhile, Europe continues to shelter people fleeing the war in Ukraine. By November 2024, over 4.2 million Ukrainians had temporary protection status in the EU.

Germany hosted more than 1.15 million of them, followed by Poland with 987,925 and Czechia with 385,190.

The EU activated its temporary protection system in March 2022 to provide immediate shelter and services for those displaced by the war. The European Council recently extended this protection until March 2026, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

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Smaller countries shoulder proportionate burden

While larger EU countries like Germany and Poland host the most refugees overall, smaller nations face greater pressure relative to their population size.

Czechia hosted the highest ratio, with 35.3 refugees per 1,000 people. Latvia and Estonia also reported high ratios, with 25.5 per 1,000 each, compared to the EU average of 9.4 per 1,000.

Migrants face challenges while EU simplifies entry for short-term visitors

Short-term visitors are unlikely to face disruptions from migration trends. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), launching in late 2025, aims to streamline entry for tourists and business travelers.

Migrants, however, face growing challenges as EU countries enforce stricter border controls and prioritize temporary protection over permanent asylum

Ukrainians have found stability through the temporary protection system, but its extension highlights uncertainty about their long-term integration.

Migrants from other regions may face even greater obstacles as resources and public attention focus on those displaced by the war.

Two rescue workers in red uniforms and life vests operate a small inflatable boat labeled "Bombeiros" on calm waters.
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EU migration policies under strain

The drop in asylum applications raises concerns about the EU’s migration strategy. Temporary protection has helped in immediate crises but cannot substitute for long-term asylum policies.

Stricter border controls and unequal distribution of asylum seekers among member states highlight persistent challenges.

Politics adds another layer of difficulty. Anti-immigration views, like those from Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, shape policies and public opinion.

As the EU rolls out the ETIAS and other updates, it must navigate the balance between meeting humanitarian responsibilities and addressing public concerns.

Reflecting on the future of migration in Europe

Europe’s migration policies face a turning point. The drop in asylum applications shows progress in some areas but highlights ongoing problems.

Finding a balance between temporary protection and long-term solutions will need cooperation, fairness, and shared responsibility among EU countries. How Europe handles these challenges will define its commitment to both security and compassion.

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