Policy

Migration and asylum

The EU has developed a new approach to better manage all aspects of migration. It aims to combat irregular migration and smuggling, save lives and secure the EU's external borders while still attracting talent and skills.

Page Contents

Policies

  • Legal migration

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

  • Irregular migration and return

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

  • External border control

    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.

  • Asylum

    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.

  • International cooperation on migration

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

  • Schengen and internal borders

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