Amendments tabled by the European People's Party (EPP) and rapporteur Javier Zarzalejos to the proposed EU Return Regulation would significantly expand enforcement powers for member states while reinforcing procedural safeguards, according to a consolidated text published on 15 June 2026. The amendments, examined in the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE), aim to replace the current Return Directive (2008/115/EC) with a more harmonised and legally binding framework to increase return rates and prevent secondary movements, in line with the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum.
The proposed changes introduce a rebuttable presumption of a risk of absconding based on criteria such as unauthorised entry or non-compliance, and strengthen the obligation for third-country nationals to cooperate by providing information and documentation. Non-compliance would trigger mandatory measures, including detention or alternatives. New investigative powers allow authorities to conduct searches to prepare for returns, while alternatives to detention — such as financial guarantees or electronic monitoring — are codified as less restrictive options. Entry bans would become mandatory for individuals posing a security risk or failing to leave voluntarily, and grounds for forced removal are broadened to include non-cooperation.
Procedural safeguards are reinforced: the right to an effective remedy requires a full examination of facts and law, with a maximum appeal period of 14 days. The principle of non-refoulement is explicitly linked to the suspension of removal and review of return decisions. Protection for vulnerable groups is enhanced, with the best interests of the child elevated to a primary consideration, and specific provisions for unaccompanied minors and families strengthened, including mandatory representation and stricter detention conditions (last resort, separate accommodation). A new article mandates that the external dimension of return policy is integral to migration management, linking readmission cooperation with third countries to broader EU relations.
The amendments, still to be voted in committee and then in plenary, represent a significant shift towards a more assertive return system. For member states, they provide clearer legal bases to impose measures and accelerate procedures, but require investment in new administrative and judicial capacities. For third-country nationals, the balance between increased enforcement and reinforced fundamental rights protections — including independent monitoring of forced returns — will determine practical outcomes. The European Parliament's final position will shape trilogue negotiations with the Council, which has yet to adopt its own stance on the file.