The Asylum Interview (Anhörung) in Germany
Expected Questions and Practical Preparation Tips
The asylum interview (Anhörung) conducted by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) is the most important stage of the asylum procedure in Germany, because the final decision largely depends on what is said during this interview.
Important reminder:
This is not an ordinary interview, but an official investigation that determines your legal future, so it must be taken very seriously.
What happens during the Anhörung session?
The session is held with a BAMF officer, a neutral interpreter, and sometimes a note-taker.
The applicant is asked detailed questions about their life, reasons for leaving the country, and justification for seeking protection.
Everything said is recorded word-for-word in an official protocol (Protokoll), which you are asked to sign at the end.
Key expected questions
Questions are grouped into common topic areas:
1. Identity and personal background
What is your full name?
When and where were you born?
What is your religion?
Are you married? Do you have children?
What is your mother tongue? Do you speak other languages?
What is your education level? Did you work in your home country?
2. Travel details to Germany
When did you leave your country, and why?
Which route did you take to reach Germany?
Which countries did you pass through, and how long did you stay in each?
Did you apply for asylum in another country?
Do you have relatives in Germany or Europe?
3. Reasons for seeking asylum
This is the most important part and has the strongest impact on the decision:
What made you leave your country?
Were you threatened or harmed? By whom?
Were you arrested or interrogated?
Did you face discrimination because of your religion, political opinion, gender, sexual orientation, or social group?
Do you have evidence? (photos, reports, statements, video, documents…)
What would happen if you returned?
Why can’t you get protection from your country’s authorities?
4. Current situation
How long have you been in Germany?
Do you live in a shelter or private accommodation?
Are you learning the language?
Do you work or study?
How do you see your future here?
Golden preparation tips
1. Prepare your story in advance
Write your story in chronological order: from the beginning of the problem until you left.
Be precise about dates, names, and places.
Practice explaining your story clearly and consistently.
2. Do not lie
Lying or exaggerating can lead to a complete rejection.
Interviewers are trained to detect inconsistencies.
3. Avoid contradictions
Any difference between what you say now and what you stated earlier can be used against you.
If you forget something, do not invent an answer—say honestly: “I don’t remember exactly.”
4. Ask for a good interpreter
You have the right to an interpreter in your native language.
If the interpretation is inaccurate, report it immediately.
5. Don’t sign before checking
At the end, you must review the protocol.
Read it carefully, or ask the interpreter to read it aloud.
Correct any mistake before signing.
6. Get legal or counseling support before the interview
A lawyer or counseling center can help structure your case and prepare you for critical questions.
Free organizations include: Pro Asyl, Caritas, Diakonie, Refugee Law Clinics.
Documents recommended for interview day
ID card or passport (if available).
Any evidence of persecution: medical reports, threat letters, photos of political activities, messages, recordings, or court rulings.
Educational or professional certificates.
Travel documents if available (e.g., flight ticket or transit visas).
Conclusion
The asylum interview is not just an administrative step—it is the moment that can decide your entire future. Prepare well, tell your story truthfully, and never underestimate details. Remember: every word is recorded, and it may be the difference between approval and rejection.
ـ Disclaimer: The writers and editors aim to provide accurate information through extensive research and multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please treat the information as initial guidance and always consult the competent authorities for verified details.
