The European Parliament has approved new rules to speed up the deportation of non-European Union (EU) nationals residing in member states.
These measures, adopted by Members of the European Parliament on Wednesday, June 17, introduce stricter procedures for migrants issued with return orders and could affect Kenyans living without legal status in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy and other European nations.
“Under the legislation, a return decision issued to a non-EU national staying illegally in a member state by the competent national authorities will come with an obligation to leave the relevant EU country immediately or within a given time,” the EU statement read in part.
The New EU Deportation Laws
Under the new framework, third-country nationals who receive a return decision will be required to cooperate with authorities and leave the country either immediately or within a specified period.
The legislation is intended to simplify and accelerate deportation procedures while maintaining compliance with international law and fundamental rights protections.
The rules also allow authorities to detain individuals facing deportation if they are considered a flight risk, fail to cooperate, or are deemed a security threat.
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Detention can last for up to 24 months, with a possible six-month extension under certain circumstances. Authorities may also require affected individuals to report regularly, reside at designated locations, or comply with electronic monitoring measures.
“Up to a six-month extension in total will be possible if circumstances change, new information appears, or cooperation with a third country improves,” the parliament stated.
In addition, national authorities will be permitted to conduct investigations to facilitate returns, including searches of residences and personal belongings, subject to judicial or administrative authorization and legal safeguards.
A key provision of the legislation allows European Union member states to transfer migrants facing deportation to designated “return hubs” in non-EU countries that agree to accept them. Such arrangements can only be made with countries that respect human rights, international law, and the principle of non-refoulement.
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The legislation was approved by the European Parliament with 418 votes in favor, 218 against, and 30 abstentions. It must still be formally adopted by the Council and published in the Official Journal before entering into force.
What It Means for Kenyans in the UK, Germany, and Italy
For Kenyans living legally in Europe with valid visas, work permits, permanent residence, or citizenship, the new rules are not expected to affect their stay.
However, those found to be residing illegally in EU member states could face faster deportation procedures, stricter monitoring requirements, and longer periods of detention under the new framework.
Also, if a Kenyan in the US overstays in the European Union and doesn’t comply with return decisions, they must receive a European Union entry ban.
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