WARSAW, POLAND / RankWire.AI / – Frontex facilitated over 33,000 returns from EU member states to non-EU countries in the first half of 2026. This represents an increase from approximately 30,000 during the same period last year. Among those returning, around 21,000 did so voluntarily, up from roughly 19,000 in 2025. According to agency data published on Sept. 7, the total supported returns since 2022 now approximate 215,000 individuals.
The European Border and Coast Guard Agency aids national authorities after individuals receive enforceable return orders. Such orders are issued once all legal options to stay in the EU are exhausted. Authorities then determine whether a return will be voluntary or forced. Voluntary returns involve compliance with the order, whereas forced returns occur when individuals do not meet the obligation to leave. The agency supports both procedures.
Germany, France, Cyprus, Belgium, and Sweden reported the highest numbers of agency-assisted returns from January to June. The predominant nationalities among returnees included individuals from Türkiye, Syria, Georgia, Colombia, India, Brazil, Albania, Morocco, Nigeria, and Iraq. During this period, Frontex assigned 109 Return Specialists across 15 member states. Additionally, 118 Return Escort and Support Officers operated in 11 states, facilitating travel, airport procedures, and flight logistics.
Most Returns Are Voluntary
In the first six months of 2026, nearly 14,000 individuals registered for EU reintegration support, compared to about 8,000 during the same timeframe in 2025. Over 80% of these returnees opted for voluntary departure. Reintegration services may encompass vocational training, counseling, and grants for small businesses upon returning home. Member states may also include other eligible returnees in the program.
Return specialists assist national authorities in managing cases, explaining available support, and securing identity documents from countries of origin. Escort and support officers accompany some returnees and handle administrative tasks related to departures. Frontex Executive Director Hans Leijtens emphasized that operations must adhere to legal standards while prioritizing safety and dignity. He also underscored the agency’s focus on voluntary returns and reintegration assistance, noting that such approaches can reduce staffing and logistical burdens associated with forced removals.
Legislative Progress on EU Return Policies Continues
The recent data follows a provisional agreement reached by European Union negotiators on June 1 concerning common return procedures. The European Parliament endorsed its first-reading position on June 17 with a vote of 418 in favor, 218 against, and 30 abstentions. The framework addresses third-country nationals without a legal right to stay in member states, establishing cooperation duties and creating a European Return Order to facilitate recognition of return decisions across the EU.
The agreed provisions allow for return hubs in non-EU countries, provided arrangements align with international law and human rights standards. Unaccompanied minors are explicitly excluded from these arrangements. The text also introduces specific measures for individuals deemed security threats and maintains the voluntary nature of mutual recognition of return decisions for now. The 2026 figures indicate an overall increase in EU return operations compared to last year, with voluntary returns remaining the majority of Frontex-supported cases.