Baden-Württemberg to Confiscate Cash and Valuables from Asylum Seekers

The state government plans to expand an existing policy to cover all reception centers, aiming to offset asylum procedure costs, despite criticism from advocacy groups.

Baden-Württemberg announced plans to seize cash and valuables exceeding €200 from asylum seekers during registration at reception centers, with a maximum limit of €5,000.
The confiscated funds will be used to cover the costs of asylum procedures, a practice already implemented in Heidelberg but now set to expand statewide.
Critics, including the state’s Refugee Council, argue that the policy could be perceived as punitive and note that many asylum seekers arrive with minimal possessions.
The policy is grounded in Germany's Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act, which requires individuals to use personal assets before receiving state aid, similar to rules for other social benefits.
Justice Minister Marion Gentges (CDU) has called for broader asylum law reforms modeled after Denmark, including limiting appeals and offering financial incentives for voluntary departures.