Germany uncovers fake Ukrainian refugees with Hungarian passports

German authorities have uncovered hundreds of individuals who applied for temporary protection as Ukrainian citizens while also holding passports from other countries, primarily Hungary. Possessing a second passport disqualifies such applicants from refugee status and related social benefits reserved for Ukrainians fleeing the war.

The Ministry of the Interior of Baden-Württemberg reported that immigration offices began detecting suspicious cases as early as the winter of 2022–2023. Officials noted that some applicants did not speak Ukrainian, raising doubts about their claimed nationality.

"Many of them communicate exclusively in Hungarian or require an interpreter," the ministry said.

German authorities are now investigating these cases and developing mechanisms to prevent further misuse of the temporary protection program. Some of those questioned admitted that their financial situation in Hungary had been difficult, prompting them to seek better social conditions in Germany.

The issue is not isolated; it often involves dual citizens unlawfully taking advantage of protection programs for Ukrainians.

According to data from the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF), between May 2023 and October 2025, authorities received 9,640 reports of suspicious cases, including over 1,100 in 2024 alone. In the past month, 141 new reports were registered, mostly from Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and North Rhine-Westphalia.

While many suspicions were unsubstantiated, investigators confirmed that at least 568 individuals also possess Hungarian citizenship.

The German government recently announced plans to tighten welfare regulations for the unemployed, which may also affect Ukrainian refugees. Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s new administration intends to cut annual asylum applications to 100,000, citing heavy pressure on the country’s infrastructure due to the ongoing influx of refugees.