Saarland to deport Afghans obligated to leave, regardless of criminal status

The German state of Saarland is preparing to deport Afghan nationals who are legally obligated to leave the country, irrespective of whether they are considered security threats or have committed crimes. The Interior Ministry affirmed that the principle is clear: 'Anyone who is obligated to leave must leave Germany.'

This stance clarifies that deportations are not limited to individuals flagged as dangerous or convicted offenders. The ministry emphasized that removing foreign nationals who are legally required to depart and show no willingness to leave voluntarily represents the necessary conclusion of a thorough legal process. This policy now explicitly includes Afghan citizens who are obligated to leave.

“

Fundamentally, the rule is: whoever is obligated to leave must leave Germany.

The decision on whether to proceed with deportation measures will be made on a case-by-case basis by the immigration authorities. These authorities will consider all relevant personal, legal, and humanitarian aspects to determine if any grounds exist to prevent deportation. In the current year, up to June 30, two Afghan nationals were deported from Saarland, compared to three in the entire previous year. This development follows a recent federal decision to ease restrictions on deporting Afghan nationals, removing previous limitations on presenting them for identification, particularly concerning offenders and potential threats.

“

The deportation of foreigners who are legally obligated to leave and show no willingness to leave voluntarily is the necessary conclusion of a long and thorough legal process.