A new study by Germany’s Federal Institute for Population Research (BiB) has revealed that immigrants from Eastern Europe are the most satisfied with their lives in Germany. Meanwhile, second-generation immigrants — the children of those who moved decades ago — report lower satisfaction levels than their parents.
The findings highlight what experts call the “integration paradox” — a situation where greater social participation can sometimes lead to frustration and disappointment.

Key Findings at a Glance

Happiness in Germany on the Rise

According to the 2025 Happiness Atlas, overall satisfaction levels in Germany have improved compared to recent years. The report found that one in two Germans describe themselves as “very satisfied” with life, with the biggest increase in happiness seen in eastern states. Hamburg ranks as the happiest region in the country.

Researchers say that, overall, Germany has returned to pre-pandemic satisfaction levels, but the picture differs across social and ethnic groups.

The Integration Paradox: Why Some Immigrants Feel Less Satisfied

Dr. Katharina Spiess, head of the BiB.Monitor project, explained that while integration in general has improved, the data reveal a unique pattern.

“We are observing the so-called ‘integration paradox,’ in which the descendants of immigrants are less satisfied than their immigrant parents,” she said.

The concept, introduced by sociologist Aladin El-Mafaalani, suggests that the more integrated migrants become, the more they confront systemic barriers or resistance — leading to frustration.
In other words, those striving to fully participate and shape society may experience more conflict and dissatisfactionwhen progress feels limited.

Eastern Europeans Lead in Life Satisfaction

Nearly one in four immigrants from Eastern Europe said they are “very satisfied” with their life in Germany.
Germany has long attracted workers and families from Poland, Romania, and former Soviet states, including those with partial German ancestry.
Researchers believe strong employment opportunities and cultural proximity help Eastern European migrants integrate faster and feel more secure.

Challenges for Immigrants from Asia and Africa

The report found that more than one in three immigrants from Asia and Africa are dissatisfied with their life in Germany — the highest rate of unhappiness among any group surveyed.
Researchers point to racism, discrimination, and limited recognition of foreign qualifications as possible causes of this dissatisfaction.

For refugees who arrived between 2015 and 2016, such as Syrians, Iraqis, and Eritreans, satisfaction levels vary widely.
While almost one in three Syrians report being “very satisfied,” the same share of Iraqis and Eritreans remain unhappy, often due to uncertain legal status or lack of employment opportunities.

Ukrainian Refugees: Mixed Experiences

The study also looked at the large population of Ukrainians who arrived after Russia’s 2022 invasion.
Although satisfaction levels have improved slightly since 2024, they remain lower than average — especially among older women whose family members are still in Ukraine.

“Among Ukrainians seeking protection, we see lower satisfaction, particularly among older women,” Spiess said. “This may be linked to separation from partners or ongoing conflict-related stress.”

Language and Integration: The Key to Well-Being

One of the strongest correlations identified in the study is between German language skills and life satisfaction.
Immigrants who speak German fluently — both at work and at home — are significantly happier and better integrated.

“The less immigrants speak German at home, the more dissatisfied they tend to be,” said Spiess. “Language remains the foundation of successful integration.”

Experts say this finding underscores the importance of accessible language training and community support for newcomers.

German Emigrants Show High Satisfaction Abroad

Interestingly, the study also compared life satisfaction among Germans living abroad.
Those who moved to Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Greece reported high levels of happiness — often citing a better climate and lower cost of living as key reasons.

“People who emigrate are not necessarily dissatisfied in Germany,” Spiess noted. “Many simply want new experiences and a different lifestyle.”

Key Takeaways

• Eastern European immigrants are the happiest migrant group in Germany.

• Asian and African immigrants report lower satisfaction due to discrimination and integration challenges.

• Second-generation immigrants often feel less satisfied than their parents — the “integration paradox.”

• Fluent German speakers report higher happiness and integration success.

• Ukrainian refugees remain less satisfied, especially older women separated from families.

FAQs

1. Which immigrant group is most satisfied in Germany?
New immigrants from Eastern Europe report the highest levels of satisfaction.

2. Why are second-generation immigrants less happy?
Experts call it the integration paradox — as integration improves, expectations rise, sometimes leading to frustration.

3. How does language affect happiness?
Better German language skills are linked to higher life satisfaction and social inclusion.

4. Are refugees from Syria more satisfied than others?
Yes, Syrians report higher satisfaction levels, likely due to greater protection status and family reunification options.

5. How do German emigrants feel abroad?
Germans who move to southern Europe report being very satisfied, citing better weather and lifestyle.

Conclusion

The BiB.Monitor Well-Being study offers valuable insight into how integration, language, and social inclusion shape happiness among Germany’s immigrant communities. While most new arrivals show positive adaptation, lingering inequality and discrimination continue to affect overall satisfaction.
As Germany remains one of Europe’s top migration destinations, experts stress that language learning and equal opportunity policies will be key to ensuring all immigrants feel at home and fulfilled.