UNE and the UDI suspended the duty to return to Gaza on 18 October 2023 due to the war between Hamas and Israel. Since then, people from Gaza without legal residence in Norway have been able to stay until further notice. UNE is now lifting this temporary suspension as of 24 September 2025.
This does not mean that people without a residence permit in Norway must now return to Gaza.
The UDI supports UNE's decision and will also lift the suspension of the duty to return to Gaza as of the same date.
The head of Protection at the UDI, explains that the suspension of the duty to return should be a temporary measure. He stated that everyone will be protected against deportation to Gaza. Therefore, there is no longer a need for a suspended duty to leave. If there are persons from Gaza who are finally rejected in Norway, they will be granted postponed implementation on an individual basis. This means that they can stay in Norway for the time being.