From now on, refugees in Austria, who draw up documents for family reunification, must take DNA tests. The Austrian authorities took such a step because of the abuse of some asylum seekers and in order to reduce the number of applications for refugee status based on the reunification of migrant families.
It is worth noting that the number of those applying to the competent Austrian authorities for asylum is decreasing. In the first quarter of 2024, 6,900 such applications were submitted, which is a third less than in January-March 2023. The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Austria explains this trend by the introduction of measures to reduce the influx of illegal migrants into the country.
The Austrian Chancellor initiated the introduction of additional requirements for family reunification Karl Nehammer. Family members of those who have already received asylum in the country will take DNA tests when crossing the border. However, not everyone will go through such a procedure, but only those in whose cases there is “at least the slightest doubt about the authenticity of the documents.”
Asylum seekers in Austria can apply for family reunification within three months of receiving protection status in the country.
The Austrian government also proposed a ban on family reunification for those refugees who are unable to support themselves or their families. In this case, migrants would have to provide proof that they earn at least 1,200 to 2,000 euros per month. But such a decision requires legislative changes at the EU level, so for now such restrictions will not be applied.
We will remind, in January-March 2024 the number of applications from foreigners claiming refugee status or additional protection in Poland increased by 30%.
