In November 2025, 54,825 first-time asylum applications were registered from non-EU citizens, representing a 26% decrease compared to November 2024 (74,495) and a 12% decrease compared to October 2025 (62,375), according to data published this month by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union.
Additionally, 11,455 “subsequent” applications — submitted by individuals who had previously applied for international protection — were recorded during the same month. This represents a 62% increase compared to November 2024 (7,090), although still 23% lower than in October 2025 (14,900).
⏺️ Main nationalities of applicants
The most recent data show that the largest groups of asylum seekers in November 2025 came from:
- Venezuela – 8,060 first-time applications
- Afghanistan – 5,125
- Bangladesh – 3,585
- Syria – 2,365
These figures reflect ongoing migration patterns, with a significant proportion of applicants originating from Venezuela and from countries experiencing prolonged conflict or severe socioeconomic crises.
⏺️ Main destination countries
Regarding the EU Member States receiving the highest number of first-time asylum applications in November 2025, the following stand out:
- Italy – 12,195 applications
- Spain – 11,875 applications
- France – 8,845 applications
- Germany – 8,740 applications
Together, these four countries accounted for approximately 76% of all first-time asylum applications in the EU during that month.
⏺️ Unaccompanied minors
One particularly relevant aspect of the November 2025 data is the presence of unaccompanied minors seeking international protection. During that month, 1,370 first-time asylum applications were submitted by unaccompanied minors across the EU.
The most common countries of origin for these minors were:
- Somalia – 245
- Eritrea – 160
- Afghanistan – 135
- Venezuela – 135
- Egypt – 130
The EU Member States receiving the highest number of asylum applications from unaccompanied minors were:
- Netherlands – 375
- Germany – 265
- Greece – 185
- Spain – 155
- Belgium – 95
⏺️ Reading the data
Although the overall number of first-time asylum applications has significantly decreased compared to the previous year, migration dynamics within the European Union remain complex. The continued presence of specific nationalities — such as Venezuela and Afghanistan — and the considerable number of unaccompanied minors demonstrate that international protection needs persist.
Moreover, the reduction in initial applications does not necessarily mean a real decrease in pressure on asylum systems. The year-on-year increase in subsequent applications indicates that many procedures remain open, are under review, or require new legal strategies. This has a direct impact on legal planning, particularly in a context where both EU and national legislation continue to evolve under the framework of the new Pact on Migration and Asylum.
In short, November 2025 confirms a downward trend in new applications, but it also shows that the asylum phenomenon in the EU remains structurally complex. Spain continues to rank among the main receiving countries both in absolute numbers and relative to population size, reinforcing the importance of solid and specialized legal advice.
⏺️ How ARC Legal can help
At ARC Legal, we assist individuals and families seeking international protection in Spain, as well as those already in procedure who require a clear and well-defined legal strategy.
We can assist you with:
- Preliminary viability assessment of asylum or subsidiary protection applications.
- Full preparation of the application file and support during interviews.
- Appeals against negative decisions.
Every international protection case requires strategic planning from the very beginning. An incorrect approach at the initial stage may condition the entire procedure.
If you need personalized guidance, feel free to contact our firm so we can assess your specific situation.
Related publications
- Spain’s 2026 Extraordinary Regularization: Key changes in the new draft
- Extraordinary Regularization 2026: What asylum seekers need to know
- European Parliament approves key asylum reform measures
¿Prefieres leerlo en español 🇪🇸? Puedes encontrarlo aquí: Las solicitudes de asilo en la UE caen un 26 % en noviembre de 2025
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, immigration and asylum regulations are subject to change and interpretation by the competent authorities. For tailored and current legal advice, we recommend consulting a specialized immigration lawyer.