Georgian Interior Ministry prepares legislation to combat illegal migration, improve international protection

In order to refine the regulations related to granting the status of international protection to a foreigner or stateless person, combat illegal migration and prevent misuse of the asylum procedure, a package of legislative amendments on international protection was prepared by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia.

The reforms are designed to enhance the fight against irregular migration and prevent the misuse of the asylum system. The Ministry has officially submitted the draft legislation to the Parliament of Georgia for consideration.

The legislative amendments were developed in alignment with directives of the European Parliament and Council, ensuring compatibility with EU standards.

Key proposed changes include:

• Introduction of a new penalty - expulsion of a foreigner from Georgia and a ban on re-entry for a specified period.
• Addition of a new administrative measure - expulsion of a foreigner and prohibition from entering Georgia.
• Higher financial penalties for foreigners who violate the rules of stay on Georgian territory.
• Streamlining the procedures for expelling foreigners residing illegally in the country

To prevent abuse of the asylum system, the proposed legislation introduces several new measures:

• Implementation of a fast-track process for individuals who do not apply for asylum within one month of entering the country.
• Introduction of a new mechanism allowing asylum applications to be reviewed at the border without permitting entry, if the individual poses a threat to national security.
• Significant reduction in the duration of asylum review and appeal processes.
• Establishment of a simplified, electronic method for delivering asylum-related decisions to applicants, improving transparency and control over appeal deadlines.
• Prohibition on issuing residence permits to foreigners who are under investigation for expulsion or have already received an expulsion order.