The Alternative for Germany (AfD) made significant gains in Lower Saxony’s municipal elections on 13 September 2026.
However, the AfD did not win the election overall. The CDU remained the largest party with approximately 27 percent of the vote, while the AfD received 15.9 percent. The result nevertheless gives the AfD considerably more representation in municipal and district councils across the state.
For immigrants living in Lower Saxony, the important question is whether this result changes their legal position. The short answer is no.
Does the Election Result Change German Immigration Law?
No. The municipal election does not change the rules governing German visas, residence permits, EU Blue Cards, family reunification, permanent residence or citizenship.
These matters are primarily governed by federal legislation, including the German Residence Act and Nationality Act. Municipal councils cannot introduce their own visa requirements or rewrite the eligibility criteria for residence and citizenship.
A valid residence permit does not become invalid because a political party gains seats in a local election. Applications must continue to be assessed according to the law in force.
What Did the AfD Gain in Lower Saxony?
The AfD substantially increased its representation at local level, receiving around 16 percent of the vote across Lower Saxony.
Municipal elections determine the composition of city councils, district councils and other local bodies. These institutions deal with matters such as housing, schools, childcare, local services and municipal budgets.
The stronger result therefore gives the AfD a larger voice in local political debates. It does not, however, give the party control over Lower Saxony or Germany’s immigration system.
The level of influence it can exercise will depend on the results and political arrangements within each municipality. Other parties continue to hold the majority of seats across the state.
Can Local Councils Influence Immigration Matters?
Local councils cannot change the legal requirements for obtaining or keeping a German residence permit.
Foreigners’ authorities, or Ausländerbehörden, are responsible for many residence-related decisions at municipal or district level. They must apply federal immigration law when processing applications.
Individual applications cannot lawfully be approved or rejected simply because of a council’s political composition. Decisions must have a legal basis and can be challenged through the appropriate administrative and judicial procedures.
Local politics may still affect the wider experience of immigrants. Councils can make decisions concerning the funding of integration programmes, refugee accommodation, language support and other municipal services. The practical impact will vary considerably between different cities and districts.
Can the AfD Increase Deportations Through Local Councils?
Not by changing the law.
Deportation and other measures ending a person’s stay in Germany require a lawful basis. They are governed by federal immigration and asylum legislation, as well as constitutional, European and international protections.
A local election result does not create new grounds for deportation. People holding valid residence permits, recognised protection status or another lawful right to remain continue to be protected by the existing legal framework.
The authorities responsible for enforcing immigration decisions may operate at state or local level, but they cannot disregard federal law or remove the procedural rights available to the person concerned.
Should Immigrants in Lower Saxony Be Concerned?
The result is politically significant, but it should not be confused with an immediate legal change.
The AfD has campaigned for stricter immigration and asylum policies. Its growing local presence may influence political debate and the priorities discussed within individual councils. It may also contribute to uncertainty among international residents and families.
Legally, however, visas, residence permits and citizenship applications continue to be assessed under the same legislation as before the election.
Anyone with a pending application should continue following the normal process. There is no need to submit a new application or change an existing immigration plan solely because of the municipal election result.
What Should Applicants Do Now?
International residents should continue to monitor their immigration status in the usual way:
- Apply for extensions before the current residence permit expires
- Keep proof that an application was submitted
- Respond promptly to letters from the immigration authority
- Maintain copies of applications, supporting documents and official decisions
- Seek legal advice if an application is delayed, refused or affected by a change in personal circumstances
People who already qualify for permanent residence or German citizenship may wish to assess their options without unnecessary delay. Eligibility depends on the applicable law and the person’s individual circumstances, not on the result of a municipal election.
What Happens Next?
The result is evidence that the AfD is becoming a stronger force in parts of western Germany. It is likely to keep immigration high on the political agenda ahead of future state and federal elections.
That may influence future policy discussions, but proposals, campaign statements and election results do not automatically become law. Any change to German immigration or nationality legislation must pass through the relevant legislative process and comply with Germany’s constitutional and European obligations.
For immigrants in Lower Saxony, the immediate legal position remains unchanged.
How Jaberi Lawyers Can Help
Jaberi Lawyers advises international professionals, families, entrepreneurs and employers on German immigration and residence law.
If you have questions about a visa, EU Blue Card, family reunification, permanent residence, citizenship or a decision by a German immigration authority, our team can review your individual situation and explain the options available under the current law.
Contact Jaberi Lawyers for professional advice concerning your right to live, work or remain in Germany.
