Digitalization: Leipzig Immigration Office begins using AI for case processing

Who hasn't experienced this? A trip to the immigration office often feels like an odyssey through endless waiting times, incomprehensible forms, and an opaque process. Many of our clients regularly tell us about their frustrations and the feeling of being lost in the bureaucratic jungle . But recently, a new hope has emerged: The increasing digitalization of administrative processes, especially the use of artificial intelligence (AI), promises a revolution in the processing of visa and naturalization applications . Recent news, such as the introduction of an AI assistant at the Leipzig immigration office , fuels these expectations. But is this truly the beginning of a new era of efficiency, or should we temper our expectations?

The promise of digitalization: efficiency through AI

The news from Leipzig that an AI assistant will soon be available to support the naturalization process is a promising sign. We welcome any initiative aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles and shortening waiting times. Past experience has shown that processing applications, particularly for naturalization, can often take years . In Leipzig, it sometimes took up to three years just to secure an initial appointment – an unacceptable situation for those seeking to build a new life in Germany.

According to the Online Access Act (OZG), public authorities in Germany are obligated to offer their services digitally. This is an important step in the right direction to provide citizens with easier access to administrative services. Programs like "Aufenthalt Digital" (Digital Residence Permit) already allow various types of residence permits to be applied for online. The AI assistant now being introduced in Leipzig is designed to make the application process more understandable and efficient . It checks uploaded documents for completeness and consistency before the application is submitted. This can be a significant relief for applicants, as it reduces potential errors and identifies areas for improvement early on. Use of the assistant is voluntary, and the decision to make changes always remains with the applicant. Furthermore, the AI's verification data is irrevocably deleted after the application is submitted, which is a crucial step in data protection .

Reality and challenges: Why skepticism is warranted

Although digitalization and the use of AI promise many advantages, we, as a law firm confronted daily with the realities of migration management, are also obliged to maintain a certain degree of skepticism . It is important to distinguish between the ideal and actual implementation. The mere introduction of new technologies does not automatically guarantee an immediate and comprehensive acceleration of all processes.

A fundamental problem we repeatedly observe is the chronic staff shortage in many immigration offices. The backlog in Leipzig is a well-known example of this. The large number of migrants who have come to Germany since 2014 and are now eligible for naturalization after several years has placed an immense burden on staff. As long as personnel resources are not sufficiently increased, even the best AI support can only solve part of the problem. AI can help with compiling documents and facilitate the preliminary review, but the final decision on an application—and this is crucial—remains solely the responsibility of the caseworker. The legal review of the requirements for a residence permit or naturalization, as stipulated, for example, in Sections 8 to 10 of the Nationality Act (StAG) , requires human examination and a comprehensive understanding of the individual circumstances.

A look into the future: potentials and limitations

We are firmly convinced that digitalization and the use of AI hold enormous potential for increasing the efficiency of immigration authorities and making procedures more transparent and accessible for our clients. It is a necessary step to meet the demands of a modern society. If the AI assistant can indeed help ensure the completeness of documents and thus avoid queries and time-consuming resubmissions, much will already have been achieved. This could shorten processing times for case workers and allow them to focus on more complex cases.

Nevertheless, it is important to have realistic expectations. Complete automation of decision-making processes is neither desirable nor legally permissible . The person in the office remains the central point of contact and decision-maker. Digitalization should be understood as a tool that facilitates work, but does not replace it. It is a marathon, not a sprint, and it will take some time before we feel the full positive effects of digitalization in all immigration offices. Until then, we, as a law firm, will remain at your side to guide you through the process and protect your rights.