German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has said he was 'deeply shocked' by the AfD's landslide victory over his party in the Saxony-Anhalt state election — but pledged to stay the course with his programme of reforms. For expats and immigrants in Germany, the growing electoral strength of the far-right AfD and the federal government's response to it are developments worth following closely. Political shifts at state and federal level can influence immigration policy, public tone around integration, and the day-to-day experience of living in Germany as a foreigner.
The AfD secured a landslide win in Saxony-Anhalt, dealing a significant blow to Chancellor Merz's party. Merz publicly described himself as 'deeply shocked' by the result — unusually candid language for a sitting chancellor — while making clear he does not intend to change political direction in response. Instead, he said his government would press ahead with tough reforms, and acknowledged a need to explain those reforms more clearly to the public.
The result is the latest in a series of strong AfD performances in eastern German state elections and reflects broader voter frustration across the country.
The AfD's growth in electoral power creates pressure on mainstream parties to respond, and that dynamic can influence immigration-related policy. In the past, strong AfD results have pushed other parties to adopt stricter rhetoric or measures on border control, asylum, and integration. Merz's vow to continue 'tough reforms' while seeking to communicate them better may be read in that context.
For expats, this does not translate into immediate changes to your Aufenthaltstitel or legal status — federal immigration law changes through legislative processes, not election nights. However, the political environment shapes the climate in which those laws are debated and revised.
The same news cycle saw thousands of people protesting against the far-right in Berlin, illustrating that Germany's political moment is contested. Civil society, opposition parties, and many ordinary residents remain active in pushing back against the AfD's agenda. For expats, this means the picture is not one-sided: there are strong, organised voices advocating for an open and diverse Germany alongside the electoral gains of the far-right.
Staying informed — through reliable English-language sources covering German politics — is one of the most practical things you can do as an expat navigating this environment.
State election results determine who governs at the regional level, not federal law. Federal immigration legislation is decided in the Bundestag. However, strong AfD results can influence the political debate at federal level and put pressure on governing parties to adjust their positions over time.
Your rights as a foreign resident are anchored in federal law and, for EU citizens, in EU law. They are not removed overnight by election results. That said, it is sensible to stay informed, keep your paperwork up to date, and know where to turn for advice. If you have questions about your specific situation, consult a qualified immigration lawyer or contact your local Ausländerbehörde.
The AfD's landslide in Saxony-Anhalt and Chancellor Merz's response mark an important moment in German politics. For expats and immigrants, the immediate practical impact is limited, but the longer-term political direction of the country is relevant to anyone building a life here. Stay engaged, stay informed, and make sure your own documentation and permits are in order.
Source: The Local
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