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Germany is officially offering cash incentives to Afghan nationals seeking to come to the country under a humanitarian resettlement program.

Some shit you should know before you dig in: If you’re unaware, Germany currently operates a humanitarian resettlement program designed to offer protection to Afghan nationals who are at heightened risk under Taliban rule. Thisincludes individuals who previously worked with German forces, government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations, as well as journalists, human rights activists,  and others whose lives may be in danger due to their professional or social roles. Eligible applicants must undergo a vetting process, including identity verification and security screenings, before receiving formal approval for relocation. Many of those seeking to come to Germany are waiting in neighboring countries like Pakistan. Those approved to resettle in Germany are provided housing, social services, and integration support upon arrival.

What’s going on now: German officials have confirmed that Afghan nationals currently stranded in Pakistan have been offered one-time cash payments if they agree to withdraw from the resettlement program. Reports indicate the payments range from $2,800 if accepted prior to departure, up to $11,500 for those who withdraw and return to Afghanistan or travel to a third country. Additional support, such as temporary housing, medical care, and logistical assistance, may also be provided as part of the incentive package.

The rationale behind this move, according to the German government, is to ease the burden on the country’s overloaded and delayed resettlement process. The program, which was frozen earlier in 2025 by Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration, has left thousands of Afghans in limbo (especially in Pakistan, where visa renewals are no longer being issued and deportations of undocumented Afghans are increasing). German officials say the payments provide a “realistic perspective” for individuals who, due to security checks or bureaucratic backlogs, may never actually make it to Germany.

Two different views for you: The policy has sparked harsh criticism from rights groups, refugee advocates, and Afghans within the program. Some see it as a betrayal of Germany’s promise to protect those at risk from Taliban persecution. To the contrary, supporters say the government must do this because of concerns related to national security and point to the recent arrest of two Afghan nationals linked to an alleged plot to attack Jewish targets in Germany.