New Immigration Rules in the European Union in 2026
The European Union has approved a rigorous strategic plan to reform immigration and asylum rules, which will be implemented from 2026. This new legislative framework, the result of several years of heated debate, aims to make stricter laws for asylum seekers, imposing increased responsibilities on the 27 member states.
Stricter Procedures for Asylum Seekers
Last Wednesday, the European Commission unveiled a ten-point strategy for implementing controversial new rules on immigration and asylum. Margaritis Schinas, vice-president of the Commission, said the aim is to make these rules “effective on the ground” in EU countries.
Integration of New Laws by 2026
Member States have until 2026 to integrate these new rules into their national legislation. Some countries, which already have experience with border screening procedures, will have an advantage, according to Schinas.
Rigorous Border Filtering
The new rules provide for strict screening procedures for asylum seekers from countries with an EU asylum recognition rate below 20%, as well as for those considered threats to public security. New arrivals will be registered with their fingerprints and photographed.
Strengthened Surveillance and Coordination
A central element of this plan is the Eurodac system, a database intended to store and process the biometric information of asylum seekers, thus facilitating their monitoring and coordination between Member States.
Centralization of Repatriation Procedures
The reform also provides for an expanded role for the EU Returns Coordinator, a position created in 2022, to centralize and harmonize repatriation procedures, ensuring their efficiency and fairness.
These new immigration rules represent a significant turning point in the European Union’s migration policy. The success of this reform will depend on the ability of Member States to collaborate closely and adapt their national legislation to ensure harmonious and secure implementation of these new provisions.
