Voluntary return and reintegration

Victims of THB can return to their country of origin through the REAG/GARP programme. REAG/GARP provides financial and organisational assistance to migrants who are willing to return to their country of origin or to move to another country that is willing to admit them. The programme is implemented by BAMF and the International Organization for Migration on behalf of the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community.

REAG/GARP is complemented by the national reintegration programme StarthilfePlus. Depending on the destination country, migrants have several options for support, including:

• Financial start-up assistance
• Support relating to housing 
• Medical assistance

Following groups are eligible under REAG/GARP programme:

• People from countries outside the EU whose application for asylum has not yet been decided, or has been denied and who are required to leave Germany,
• People entitled to asylum and those whose deportation has been temporarily suspended
• People who have entered Germany by way of family reunification with an eligible person
• Persons from EU member states who are victims of human trafficking or forced prostitution

REAG/GARP programme does not include formalised risk assessment procedure with the country of destination. However, in each case of return, there are consultations between BAMF, the responsible state authorities or non-governmental organisations, and the victim.

Additionally, all returnees can receive support via the EU Reintegration Programme (EURP). EURP support in Germany is available for 32 countries of origin. Short-term support covers airport pickup, onward transport to the destination, and necessary overnight stays before reaching the destination. Long-term support includes housing support, school and vocational training measures, advice on job opportunities, and help in finding a job.