Tougher penalties for those who flout immigration law - such higher maximum sentences for those who enter Greece illegally, making it a criminal offence to remain in the country after asylum has been refused and abolishing the right to a residence permit for those who live in the country illegally for seven or more years, are envisioned in the draft migration ministry bill presented to the cabinet, sources said on Thursday, May 29.
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For entry into the country, the bill provides for a stricter framework in line with the guidelines of the new European regulation on migration, which is set to come into effect in 2026. Specifically, it establishes as a mandatory grounds for entry denial the risk posed by the presence of a third-country national to public order and safety, national security, and public health. At the same time, the duration of the entry ban is extended from 5 years to 10 years, with the possibility of a further extension for up to five additional years.
For those who enter the country illegally, the bill provides for an increase in the minimum prison sentence from 3 months to at least 2 years, and in aggravated cases from 6 months to at least 3 years. At the same time, the monetary fine is increased, reaching up to 10,000 euros.
The bill also provides for the abolition of the provision granting residence permits to individuals who entered the country without the necessary documents and have been residing illegally for 7 years.
The draft bill is expected to be submitted to Parliament for a vote around the end of June, following the completion of the required procedures.
Source: ANA-MPA
