Bill on "Implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum " submitted to the Greek Parliament

On 26 May, a draft law of the Ministry of Immigration and Asylum with the title "Implementation of the Pact on Immigration and Asylum and other provisions of the Ministry of Immigration and Asylum" was submitted to Parliament.

The new framework aims to protect more effectively the external borders of the European Union, accelerate asylum procedures and strengthen the returns of those who are not entitled to international protection or legal residence in the EU. 

The bill establishes for the first time a mandatory screening procedure at the external borders for all irregularly entering third-country nationals, which includes:
•    full identification,
•    taking fingerprints and biometric data,
•    security checks,
•    health checks.

At the same time, asylum applications at the border will be examined through a fast-track procedure and strict timelines, so that in many cases the completion of the asylum and return process will take place within approximately twelve weeks.

The new framework also provides that those who do not receive international protection will be immediately led into a return process, with stricter control mechanisms and the possibility of remaining in closed or controlled structures at the borders until the completion of the process.

Of particular importance is the provision for the use of return centers outside the European Union, within the framework of the new European return policy, sending a clear message that those who are not entitled to international protection cannot remain indefinitely on European territory.

The draft law also strengthens cooperation with European organizations and Frontex, upgrades the registration and identification systems, including the new Eurodac, and establishes a modern, functional and effective system for managing migration flows, based on clear rules, rapid examination of protection requests and effective implementation of returns.