The latest figures published by Eurostat on asylum applications and decisions in the European Union provide a clear picture of recent migration dynamics. The data for June 2025 and the second quarter of the year show a combination of a general decline in first-time applications, a rise in subsequent applicants, and a sharp reduction in positive asylum decisions.
Beyond the numbers, these statistics highlight how asylum trends remain sensitive to both international instability and the border and protection policies applied across Europe. They also underline the central role of countries such as Spain, Italy, France and Germany, which together account for the vast majority of applications.
⏺️ Asylum applications in June 2025: fewer first-time claims, more subsequent applicants
In June 2025, there were 52,265 first-time asylum applicants in the EU, down 27% compared with June 2024 and 5% fewer than in May 2025. This decline suggests that, at least temporarily, migratory pressure through new asylum claims has eased.
In the same month, there were also 8,140 subsequent applicants, meaning individuals who had already received a final decision on a previous claim and decided to apply again for international protection. This represents a 24% increase compared with June 2024 and a 7% rise compared with May 2025.
⏺️ Main nationalities of applicants and host countries
Venezuelans remained the largest group of first-time applicants (7,615), followed by Afghans (4,085), Bangladeshis (2,735) and Syrians (2,315). These figures highlight both the persistence of protracted humanitarian crises (such as in Afghanistan and Syria) and the socio-economic challenges driving thousands of people to leave Latin American countries like Venezuela.
In terms of host countries, Spain (12,645), Italy (9,765), France (9,510) and Germany (6,860) together received almost three-quarters (74%) of all first-time applications in the EU.
When measured relative to population size, the highest rates of first-time applicants were recorded in Greece (39.4 per 100,000 inhabitants), Spain (25.8) and Cyprus (24.3), showing proportionally greater impact in medium or smaller-sized countries.
⏺️ The challenge of unaccompanied minors
A particularly striking figure is the 1,835 unaccompanied minors who applied for asylum for the first time in June 2025. These children and adolescents, arriving without family members, are in a situation of special vulnerability and require tailored protection measures.
The main countries of origin were Eritrea (460 minors), Afghanistan (205) and Mali (190). The highest numbers of applications were recorded in the Netherlands (450), Spain (415) and Germany (270). This highlights the need for EU Member States to adapt their protection systems to meet the specific needs of this especially vulnerable group.
⏺️ Asylum decisions in Q2 2025: fewer positive outcomes
Between April and June 2025, EU Member States issued 194,730 first instance asylum decisions, up 3% compared with the same quarter in 2024, but down 2% compared with Q1 2025.
Of these, 65,735 were positive decisions (34%), marking a sharp 35% decrease compared with Q2 2024.
Among those granted protection:
- 48% received refugee status,
- 28% humanitarian status,
- 24% subsidiary protection.
The highest numbers of positive first instance decisions were issued by Spain (16,060), France (14,220) and Germany (13,450). By nationality, the main beneficiaries were Afghans (13,170), Venezuelans (12,340) and Somalis (3,215).
⏺️ Conclusion on the data
The figures show a clear trend: while new asylum applications are decreasing, there is growing pressure on EU systems due to subsequent applicants and unaccompanied minors. At the same time, the recognition rate for protection has fallen significantly, reflecting a more restrictive approach to international protection across the EU.
⏺️ Do you need legal advice on asylum and international protection?
At ARC Legal, we have extensive experience handling asylum applications and appeals against negative decisions. If you need guidance on your case, do not hesitate to contact us.
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Prefer to read this article in Spanish 🇪🇸? You can find it here: Solicitudes y resoluciones de asilo en la Unión Europea: datos de junio y segundo trimestre de 2025
The information provided in this article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information, immigration regulations are subject to change and to interpretation by the competent authorities. For personalised and up-to-date advice, we recommend consulting a specialised lawyer.