AfD Re-Elects Chrupalla: What It Means for Immigrants in Germany

Introduction

For anyone living in Germany as an immigrant, refugee, or long-term expat, keeping an eye on the AfD (Alternative für Deutschland) is not optional — it is a practical necessity. The party's positions on immigration, asylum, and integration directly shape political debate and, increasingly, policy outcomes in Germany. At the AfD's recent party congress, co-leader Tino Chrupalla was re-elected to his position and gave an interview in which he said citizens expect 'leadership qualities' from the AfD. He added that detailed policy questions would be discussed in the coming year. Here is what you need to know about what this means for the immigrant community in Germany.

Who Is Chrupalla and Why Does It Matter?

Tino Chrupalla is one of the two co-leaders of the AfD, which currently sits as the second-largest party in the German Bundestag following the February 2025 federal elections. His re-election signals leadership continuity within the party at a politically significant moment — Germany's new coalition government is in its early stages, and the AfD is positioning itself as the leading opposition force.

Chrupalla's comments about 'leadership qualities' and deferring policy specifics to next year suggest the party is in a consolidation phase rather than launching immediate new legislative initiatives. However, the AfD's influence on the political climate — particularly around migration and integration — remains substantial regardless of whether it holds government positions.

The AfD's Stance on Immigration and Integration

The AfD has consistently advocated for some of the most restrictive immigration positions in German mainstream politics. Key elements of their platform that directly affect immigrants and expats include:

• Stricter border controls and deportation policies: The AfD has pushed for more deportations, including to countries other parties consider unsafe, and for tighter controls at Germany's borders.
• Reduction of asylum seekers: The party advocates for significantly limiting the number of people who can apply for asylum in Germany and for processing asylum claims outside German territory.
• Opposition to dual citizenship: The AfD opposed the 2024 reform that made dual citizenship easier for naturalised Germans — a reform that benefited many long-term immigrants.
• Integration requirements: The party frames integration as a strict obligation, often in ways that critics say unfairly stigmatise immigrant communities.

While the AfD is currently in opposition and cannot unilaterally implement these policies, its electoral strength pushes other parties to adopt harder stances on migration-related issues.

How the AfD Shapes Daily Life for Immigrants Even in Opposition

You do not need a party to be in government to feel its influence. Here is how the AfD's continued prominence affects immigrants in Germany in practical terms:

• Political climate: The AfD's framing of immigration as a security or economic burden contributes to a broader social atmosphere that some immigrants describe as unwelcoming or anxiety-inducing.
• Policy pressure on other parties: The CDU/CSU-led coalition government has already tightened several aspects of immigration and asylum policy, partly in response to electoral pressure from the AfD. Rules around deportations, border checks, and benefit access for asylum seekers have become stricter.
• Einbürgerung debates: Naturalisation (Einbürgerung) rules have been the subject of ongoing political debate, with some parties proposing to roll back the 2024 liberalisation that allowed dual citizenship. Monitoring this is important if you are planning to apply for German citizenship.
• Local politics: In states and municipalities where the AfD has stronger representation, decisions about housing, integration programmes, and local services can be influenced by AfD councillors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the AfD being in opposition mean immigration policy won't change?

Not necessarily. Germany's current governing coalition (CDU/CSU and SPD) has already implemented several policy tightening measures that align with public pressure on migration issues — pressure that the AfD helps amplify. Changes to asylum procedures, deportation agreements, and integration requirements can happen under any government. Stay informed about Bundestag debates and BAMF announcements for the most up-to-date information on rules that affect you directly.

Should I be worried about my residence status because of AfD's influence?

If you hold a valid Aufenthaltstitel or are in an active, legally sound immigration process, your status is governed by current law — not by what the AfD says. However, it is always wise to ensure your documents are up to date, to attend any required appointments with the Ausländerbehörde promptly, and to consult a qualified immigration lawyer (Fachanwalt für Ausländerrecht) if you have concerns about your specific situation. Do not rely on political commentary for legal guidance.

What is happening with dual citizenship rules in Germany?

The reform allowing dual citizenship (Mehrstaatigkeit) for naturalised Germans came into force in 2024 and is currently law. While the AfD opposes it, reversing existing legislation requires a parliamentary majority that the AfD does not currently have. Monitor official BAMF communications for any changes to Einbürgerung requirements.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Chrupalla's re-election confirms that the AfD remains a stable and influential force in German politics heading into 2026. While the party is not in government, its role as the main opposition means immigration and integration policy will continue to be contested territory in Germany's political landscape.

For immigrants and expats, the practical advice is straightforward: keep your documents in order, stay informed through reliable sources, and seek professional legal advice if you face any uncertainty about your status. Understanding the political landscape is useful context — but your rights are defined by the law as it stands today.

Source: Tagesschau