EU reaches political agreement on new return rules for irregular migrants

Late on Monday, June 1, 2026, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union, under the Cyprus Presidency, reached a provisional political agreement on new regulations for the return of third-country nationals without a legal right to stay. Represented by Deputy Minister for Migration Nikolas Ioannides, Cyprus oversaw negotiations that aimed to harmonize return procedures and increase efficiency. The agreement introduces a European Return Order to facilitate mutual recognition of decisions among member states, though participation remains voluntary for now. Non-compliant individuals face potential benefit reductions and criminal penalties, including possible imprisonment. The regulation also allows for the creation of return hubs in non-EU countries to act as transit or final destinations. European Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner emphasized that these rules will provide greater control over migration flows. This policy complements the existing EU Pact on Migration and Asylum and includes provisions for fundamental rights. A review of the system is planned three years after the regulation's implementation.