Greece tightens immigration again, the ‘seven-year residency’ program is about to shut down

• 24 June, 25

Recently, Greece’s Minister of Migration and Asylum, Makis Voridis, publicly stated in Parliament that the Greek government plans to abolish a controversial immigration policy — namely, the provision allowing undocumented immigrants to apply for legal status after residing continuously in Greece for seven years. This proposed reform signals a tougher stance by Greece toward illegal stayers.

Possible End to the “Seven-Year Legalization” Policy

In response to a question from PASOK MP Nadia Giannakopoulou regarding labor shortages and the legalization of migrants, Voridis made it clear: “We cannot reward illegal behavior. We cannot grant legal residence permits to those who merely ‘defeat the system’ by staying long enough.” He emphasized that the Greek government maintains a strict position on illegal entry and will not encourage illegal stay through institutional leniency.

Greek Government Denies Plans for New Migration Centers

Addressing media reports about Greece allegedly planning to establish 1,600 new migrant reception and accommodation centers, Voridis firmly denied the claims. He stated that the current administration has not created any new centers; instead, it has shut down three existing ones and continues to reduce both the influx of undocumented migrants and the space available for their accommodation.

Turkish Asylum Applications to Be Reexamined

Voridis also announced that Greece would conduct a thorough review of certain asylum cases granted to Turkish nationals to ensure the legality and transparency of the process. This move is seen as part of Greece’s effort to strengthen immigration controls and close loopholes in the system.

Comprehensive Asylum System Reform Set for 2025

According to Voridis, the Greek government plans to launch comprehensive discussions in the fall of 2025 to reform the asylum system. The reform aims to protect the rights of genuine refugees while establishing a more rigorous and unified review process to prevent erroneous or excessive asylum grants.

He outlined five key directions for Greece’s future immigration policy:

• Clarifying Political Party Positions: Urging political parties to openly state their stance on immigration policies;
• Efficient Administrative Execution: Stressing that regulations are not the endpoint—implementation is key;
• Strengthening Legal Labor Migration Channels: Setting clear conditions to meet domestic labor demands;
• Reevaluating Asylum Review Procedures: With particular focus on the legality of cases involving Turkish nationals;
• Reforming Asylum Standards: Building a transparent, precise, and efficient system.

Concern Over “Secondary Migration” Flows

Regarding the issue of “secondary movement” — where individuals granted asylum in Greece move on to other EU countries — Voridis stated that the Greek government does not consider this a significant problem. However, he emphasized the need for deeper consultation among EU member states under the upcoming EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, to ensure shared responsibility and unified policies amid increasingly complex migration challenges.

The tightening of Greece’s migration policy — especially the proposed abolition of the “seven-year legalization” clause — reflects the government’s firm approach toward the issue. For migrants hoping to legalize their status through prolonged unauthorized stay, this change could have far-reaching consequences. Going forward, Greece’s immigration system is expected to become more stringent, transparent, and standardized. Applicants are advised to stay informed about policy updates to make appropriate decisions and plans.

Cre: 希中网