Reaching Germany was not easy, and the journey was fraught with risk, particularly the sea crossing from Turkey. The waves were high and the boat small and overcrowded. It was not a good experience. Once on land, I used several means of transportation, including buses and taxis. I was always so worried I would lose my documents; many backroads were bumpy and felt insecure.
When I finally arrived in Germany, I thought that my situation would improve and everything would be fine, but my difficulties had only begun! I found that adapting to the country, integrating into a new society, learning the language and finding a job were so daunting and challenging.
I could not understand German, was unfamiliar with their way of life, and just could not adapt or find a job. Maybe had I known about these challenges before I left, I would have been better prepared. I really wished I had taken the time to learn German before I left Iraq. Unfortunately, things eventually did not work out for me, and my application for permanent residence in Germany was rejected.
I decided to return to Iraq in April 2021, also because I was not able to find a decent job. After a five-year wait, I chose to go back. I felt I was wasting my time there, time I could invest in building a better and more stable future back home.
I was still concerned about how to start all over and rebuild my life. Initially coming back tasted a bit sour – I could only think about all the money and time I had wasted. Thankfully, part of this money is being recovered through my barbershop, which is attracting many customers. I am now focused on rebuilding my life and work and getting back all I lost because I emigrated.
Maybe one day I will consider emigrating again, but only in the distant future, using regular pathways to move, with a proper visa and means of transportation. I would not go back to Germany.
To all young people who want to emigrate to Europe, I can only advise them to do so using regular pathways to move, with a visa or another legal means.
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