European Parliament Approves Sweeping Migration Overhaul to Accelerate Deportations

The European Parliament has approved a major overhaul of EU return policy, introducing stricter obligations for third-country nationals staying illegally in the bloc, including mandatory cooperation, longer detention periods, and the possibility of transfers to “return hubs” in third countries.

MEPs endorsed the informal agreement reached with the Council on 1 June during Wednesday’s plenary session, with 418 votes in favour, 218 against, and 30 abstentions.

The legislation aims to make returns more effective and efficient while maintaining respect for fundamental rights and international obligations, including the principle of non-refoulement and the prohibition of collective expulsions.

Under the new rules, any return decision issued by national authorities to a non-EU national staying illegally will require the individual to leave the member state immediately or within a specified period. Those subject to a return decision must actively cooperate with authorities throughout the process.

National authorities will be able to detain individuals based on an individual risk assessment, particularly in cases of non-cooperation, risk of absconding, or where the person poses a security threat. Detention must be ordered by an administrative or judicial authority and can last up to 24 months, with possible extensions of up to six months if new circumstances arise, such as improved cooperation from a third country or the emergence of new information. A fresh detention period may begin if the individual moves to another member state.

In addition, member states will also be able to impose alternatives to detention, such as regular reporting obligations, residence in a designated location, financial guarantees, or electronic monitoring.

Authorities will gain new investigative powers, including searches of individuals, residences, and premises, as well as the seizure of personal belongings and electronic devices, subject to judicial or administrative authorisation and full respect for fundamental rights.

A notable provision allows the transfer of migrants with return decisions (excluding unaccompanied minors) to “return hubs” in third countries that have concluded agreements with EU member states. Such agreements must comply with human rights standards and the principle of non-refoulement. Member states must notify the European Commission and other EU countries before these arrangements take effect.

The rules include stricter measures for individuals considered security risks.

Dutch Liberal MEP Malik Azmani (Renew), who led the file as rapporteur, welcomed the outcome. “Today Europe delivered,” he said. “People rightly expect that those with no right to stay return to their countries of origin. That’s why I have one clear priority: effective, realistic return measures. After almost 20 years of standstill, Europe finally has them. Return is the final piece in Europe’s migration system.”

The text still requires formal adoption by the Council before it can be published in the Official Journal and enter into force. Some provisions, including those on return hubs, age assessment of minors, and the external dimension of returns, will apply immediately upon entry into force. Other measures requiring national preparation will take effect 12 months later.

The approval comes amid ongoing debates across Europe about irregular migration management, border security, and cooperation with countries of origin and transit. EU officials have emphasised that the new rules aim to balance effective returns with full adherence to international and European human rights standards.