Strict measures in Greece for immigrants: detentions of up to 24 months and heavy fines

On September 3, 2025, the Greek Parliament approved a new law tightening immigration policy, introducing extended detentions and heavy fines for migrants who enter the country illegally. The law also speeds up the process of returning migrants to their countries of origin.

This measure came in response to an increase in arrivals from North Africa to the southern islands, particularly Crete and Gavdos. Undocumented migrants coming from safe EU countries who do not qualify for asylum will face detentions of up to 24 months and fines of up to 10,000 euros, or may return voluntarily.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ government has strengthened border controls and maritime patrols since 2019, also using other strict measures such as electronic monitoring of rejected asylum seekers.

Migration Minister Thanos Plevris stressed that the rights of Greek citizens take precedence over the right of asylum seekers who stay illegally.

Meanwhile, these policies have drawn criticism from human rights organizations, which accuse Greece of carrying out unlawful deportations. Frontex is reviewing several possible cases of violations by Greek forces.

“KORÇA BOOM”