Published: 01.10.2026
The EU Council has finally approved new return rules for non-EU nationals who lack a legal right to stay, with Hungary supporting the framework. The rules provide broader control measures, including detention for up to two years with possible extensions in justified cases, and allow return centres to be established outside the EU.
According to the source, the new framework targets people who already face a return decision and strengthens their obligation to leave and cooperate with authorities. Violations may lead to fines, reduced benefits, movement restrictions, electronic monitoring, and prolonged detention; an entry ban may also be imposed in certain cases. This does not change the application process for an ordinary residence-permit applicant, but it makes the consequences of losing legal status substantially more serious. The development is therefore most relevant to people at risk of overstaying or already subject to removal proceedings; unaccompanied minors are excluded from these rules.