The latest monthly report from Eurostat on asylum applications in the European Union reveals a mixed picture. While new requests for international protection remain below 2024 levels, the number of people reapplying for asylum after a previous rejection has risen sharply. The July 2025 data show that the European asylum system continues to face pressure, driven by humanitarian, economic and geopolitical factors.
⏺️ Fewer first-time applications, more repeat cases
In July, EU Member States received 55,340 first-time asylum applications, a 27% decrease compared with the same month last year but a 6% increase compared with June. This moderate month-on-month rise suggests a stabilisation after the drop observed in the spring, although the figures remain well below the peaks recorded in 2024.
The most notable development comes from repeat applicants — people who had already received a final decision and are reapplying for international protection. In July, there were 11,515 subsequent applications, representing a 62% increase compared with July 2024 and a 41% rise compared with June. This trend reflects the complexity of ongoing conflicts in countries of origin and the difficulties of achieving long-term integration in Europe.
⏺️ Venezuela and Afghanistan among the main nationalities of applicants
Venezuela remained the leading country of origin for asylum seekers, with 6,660 first-time applications in July, followed by Afghanistan (4,900), Bangladesh (3,110) and Syria (2,685). This composition highlights two realities: protracted humanitarian crises in Asia and the Middle East, and socio-economic migration from Latin America.
The countries receiving the highest number of applications were Italy (11,190), Spain (10,720), France (10,005) and Germany (8,285) — together accounting for 73% of all first-time asylum requests in the EU. This concentration underscores the unequal distribution of responsibility among Member States and the need for stronger coordination in the management of asylum and reception systems.
When comparing applications relative to population size, Greece ranked first with 46.1 applications per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Luxembourg (22.7) and Belgium (22.1). Spain remains above the EU average, confirming its position as one of the main destination countries both in absolute and proportional terms.
⏺️ Increase in unaccompanied minors
One of the most sensitive aspects of the European asylum system is the situation of unaccompanied minors, who arrive without family members and require specific protection measures. In July 2025, 1,755 such applications were registered across the EU.
The main countries of origin were Afghanistan (255 minors), Eritrea (250), Somalia and Egypt (190 each). The Netherlands (330), Germany (315) and Spain (235) received the highest numbers of unaccompanied minor applications. These figures underline the need to strengthen protection and guardianship systems to meet the needs of this particularly vulnerable group.
⏺️ A system under pressure that calls for balance and cooperation
The July data confirm a trend observed since the start of the year: fewer new asylum requests but more reopened cases and vulnerable profiles. National asylum systems remain under strain, especially in southern and western Europe, where most applications are concentrated.
The challenge for the coming months will be twofold: to ensure a coherent EU-wide migration policy while guaranteeing effective protection for those who genuinely qualify for asylum. All this is taking place against a backdrop of global instability and continued forced displacement.
⏺️ 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: Asilo en la Unión Europea: menos nuevas solicitudes y más reaperturas en julio 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.