Migration and asylum

Every day, people flee their countries because of conflicts or persecutions.

To deal fairly and efficiently with those arriving in Europe, the EU has agreed on some rules and initiatives with third countries.

A group of migrants with rucksacks and bags walk together across an abstract landscape, symbolising a journey through unfamiliar terrain.

What is the EU doing on migration

Setting migration and asylum rules

The landmark reform of the migration policy aims to ease the burden on EU countries, where most migrants arrive

Establishing effective European migration policies

The EU works in close cooperation with third countries and agencies in tackling the causes and impacts of migration.

Attracting skilled workers

Legal migration benefits migrants by offering them work opportunities while addressing labour market needs.

Number of irregular arrivals in the EU

Data up to September 2026, covering arrivals via the routes shown below.

Leagan téacs

Bar chart showing annual irregular border crossings detected along the Central Mediterranean, Eastern Mediterranean, Western Mediterranean, Western African, Western Balkan and Eastern border routes, and other routes, from 2015 to September 2026. According to Frontex figures, detections fell from 1 822 102 in 2015 to 179 855 in 2025. The 2026 figure covers January to September only.

Notes: The graph represents the total number of irregular border crossings.
Due to their exceptional nature, figures for the Western route exclude arrivals in Ceuta on 17 and 18 May 2021 and between 30 and 31 July 2026.

EU support to refugees from Ukraine

A group of people of different ages, warmly dressed and carrying bags, walk together, overlaid on blue and yellow blocks evoking the Ukrainian flag.

The EU stands in full solidarity with Ukraine and its people. In response to Russia’s aggression, the EU has shown unity and strength by welcoming over 4 million people, who now benefit from a temporary protection status.

The EU works in close cooperation with third countries and agencies in tackling the causes and impacts of migration.