Syrian Asylum Success Rate in Europe Drops to 28% in 2025

The European Union Asylum Agency stated that out of 38,407 asylum decisions for Syrians in 2025, 27,687 were negative, marking a 28% success rate. This compares to a 90% success rate in 2024. The agency provided these figures in its latest report. The men forced Mohamad and his father to lie face down and took cash and belongings before leaving.

Mohamad, from an Alawite family, said the family relocated due to fears amid reported killings targeting members of the same minority group following the change in Syria's leadership.

After nine months of moving between houses to avoid further threats, Mohamad traveled to Amsterdam on a tourist visa with his uncle Salman. They applied for asylum upon arrival. Their application was rejected within weeks, with documents indicating they were not considered personally at risk.

The surge in rejections occurs amid evolving assessments of safety in Syria after the recent political transition. European authorities have adjusted criteria for asylum claims from the country. This has led to lower approval rates for applicants, including those from minority communities.

The data covers decisions across European Union member states. Officials noted that individual cases are evaluated based on personal circumstances and evidence of risk. No further details on specific policy changes were provided in the report.