UDI and UNE extend the suspension of returns to Gaza

In March 2025, the Immigration Appeals Board (UNE) and the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) extended the suspension of returns to Gaza for an additional 6 months, effective until 18 September 2025. This suspension, which began in October 2023, was implemented due to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, the worsening security situation, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The suspension applies to individuals who have received a final decision requiring their return to Gaza, including former asylum seekers and those with a departure obligation after a rejection of their residence application under other regulations. However, individuals whose cases fall under the Dublin III Regulation or the first country of asylum rule are not covered by the suspension and must still return to the first European country where they applied for protection. The Police Immigration Unit (PU) has been informed that no individuals covered by the suspension should be returned to Gaza at this time.