Migration and asylum

A framework is needed for legal migration for the purposes of work, family reunification, study, research, training, integration and long-term residents.

The EU needs a more coordinated response to fight migrants' smuggling networks and address the migratory crisis in the Mediterranean.

The EU helps its member countries in saving lives at sea and securing Europe's external borders. The Frontex agency coordinates surveillance and risk analysis.

The EU has addressed the refugee crisis by putting in place a Common European Asylum System (CEAS) to the benefit of refugees and EU countries.

To better manage migration and mobility and respond to security challenges, the EU needs to work with countries outside the EU.

Thanks to the border-free Schengen Area, EU countries' citizens and visitors can move freely throughout the 26 participating countries.