BERLIN — On a stretch of sidewalk in Germany’s capital, migrant families huddle under blankets, their eyes locked on a tall metal gate. Helpers in bright yellow vests hand out steaming cups of tea to guard against the cold.

Beyond that gate, in the courtyard of a complex of stately brick buildings in an up-and-coming Berlin neighborhood, is Germany’s version of Ellis Island — a clearing point for hundreds of new arrivals who gather long before dawn to submit their asylum applications.

Many wait more than eight hours here each day, only to be told they will have to return the next day.

“They always say ‘tomorrow,’ ” said Ezzat Aswam, 33, standing in the predawn chill with his 6-year-old daughter and 8-year-old son nestled next to him. He and his family arrived in Germany four months ago.