Greece Sees 45,000 Drop in Pending Immigration Applications

The Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum reports a decrease of 45,000 pending applications for legal residency permits in the first four months after the implementation of a new immigration law in February. The new framework focuses on accelerating the processing of permits for legal residents and improving organized channels for attracting workers to address economic needs while curbing illegal trafficking. As of June 30, applications for initial permits decreased by 34% and overall permit reductions reached 20%, with a 75% decrease in pending Golden Visa applications.

The ministry has also begun issuing permits with a minimum two-year duration to 8,217 legal migrants, providing greater stability. A recent agreement with Egypt is now active, with 100 applications and over 600 interviews completed for 5,000 agricultural workers. Officials link this progress to improved cooperation with Egypt regarding both legal and illegal migration, noting a significant drop in arrivals from Egypt alongside increased returns.

The next phase will focus on fully implementing special regional permits and connecting the ministry's system with consulates, aiming to make legal migration a stable tool for economic growth and social cohesion.