“7-Year Residency” Program Ends as Greece Prepares New Immigration Law

  • 2 August, 25

On July 17, 2025, the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum officially launched a public consultation on the draft law titled “Reform of Procedures for the Residence and Return of Third-Country Nationals.” The bill proposes a sweeping overhaul of Greece’s immigration framework, with a strong focus on enforcement, deportation, and stricter asylum procedures.

One of the most controversial provisions is the abolition of the “7-year illegal stay legalization” policy, which previously allowed undocumented migrants who had lived in Greece for seven years to apply for legal status. The reform signals a historic shift toward zero tolerance for illegal stay and stricter border control.

Key Highlights of Greece’s New Immigration Bill (2025)

1. Abolition of the “7-Year Illegal Stay” Legalization Rule

The policy allowing undocumented migrants to apply for legal status after seven years of illegal residence is revoked. Time-based legalization is no longer an option.

2. Expanded Definition of “Safe Third Country” & Faster Deportation

Rejected asylum seekers can now be deported to their country of origin, previous transit country, or any other country that has denied them asylum, significantly speeding up deportation processes.

3. Stricter Monitoring and Detention of Rejected Asylum Seekers

Individuals deemed a flight risk will be detained. Maximum detention time is extended from 18 to 24 months, with further extensions possible under special circumstances.

4. Shortened Voluntary Departure Period & Electronic Tracking Devices

The deadline for voluntary departure is reduced from 25 to 14 days (maximum 60 days). Electronic tracking devices will be mandatory for monitoring compliance.

5. Harsher Penalties for Illegal Entry and Re-entry

  • Repeat offenders will face fines between €10,000 and €30,000
  • Illegal stay may result in up to 2–3 years of imprisonment and fines up to €10,000
  • Those posing threats to public health or national security may be banned from re-entering Greece for up to 15 years

6. Imprisonment or Immediate Deportation for Undocumented Migrants

Anyone unable to provide valid legal identification will face up to 3 years in prison and fines up to €10,000. No parole or sentence reduction will be granted. For undocumented third-country nationals, the only options are imprisonment or immediate deportation.

Public Consultation Open, Implementation Expected Soon

The new immigration bill entered public consultation on July 17, 2025, at 14:30, and the deadline for feedback is July 31, 14:00. Authorities aim to fast-track the legislation in line with the EU’s new Return Directive and in response to increasing illegal immigration pressures.

This bill marks a major shift in Greece’s immigration policy, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to illegal residence. Going forward, legal entry and residency in Greece will only be possible through official visa and permit channels.

Cre: 希中网

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