WARSAW, POLAND / RankWire.AI / – Frontex facilitated more than 33,000 returns from EU member states to non-EU countries during the first half of 2026. This represents an increase from approximately 30,000 in the same period last year. About 21,000 individuals returned voluntarily, compared to roughly 19,000 a year earlier. According to agency data released on Sept. 7, this brings the total Frontex-supported returns since 2022 to roughly 215,000 people.
The European Border and Coast Guard Agency assists national authorities once an enforceable return decision is issued. Such decisions are made after all legal options to stay in the EU have been exhausted. It is then up to national authorities to determine whether the return will be voluntary or forced. Voluntary returns involve compliance with the order, whereas forced returns occur when individuals do not fulfill the obligation to leave. The agency provides support for both types of return processes.
Germany, France, Cyprus, Belgium, and Sweden recorded the highest number of agency-supported returns from January through June. The primary nationalities among returnees were from Türkiye, Syria, Georgia, Colombia, India, Brazil, Albania, Morocco, Nigeria, and Iraq. During this period, Frontex deployed 109 Return Specialists across 15 member states. Additionally, 118 Return Escort and Support Officers operated in 11 member states to assist with travel arrangements, airport procedures, and flight logistics.
Majority of Returns Are Voluntary
In the first half of 2026, nearly 14,000 individuals registered for EU reintegration support, compared to around 8,000 in the same timeframe of 2025. Over 80% of these returnees chose voluntary departure. The reintegration assistance offered includes vocational training, counseling, and grants for small businesses upon their return to home countries. Member states also have the option to enroll other eligible returnees into the program.
Return specialists play a key role in assisting national authorities with case management, clarifying available support options, and obtaining identification documents from countries of origin. Escort and support officers accompany some returnees and manage administrative procedures related to departures. Hans Leijtens, the Frontex Executive Director, emphasized that operations must adhere to legal standards and prioritize safety and dignity. He also pointed out that voluntary returns and reintegration support form the core of the agency’s current efforts. The agency notes that voluntary returns can lessen staffing and logistical burdens associated with forced removals.
EU Return Regulations Progress Through Legislative Channels
Recent figures follow European Union negotiators reaching a provisional agreement on common return rules on June 1. The European Parliament approved its initial position on June 17 by a vote of 418 to 218, with 30 abstentions. The proposed framework targets third-country nationals lacking a legal right to remain within member states, establishing cooperation obligations and creating a European Return Order to facilitate recognition of return decisions across the bloc.
The finalized text permits the establishment of return hubs in non-EU countries, provided arrangements comply with international law and human rights standards. Unaccompanied minors are excluded from these provisions. It also incorporates specific measures for individuals deemed security threats, while mutual recognition of return decisions remains voluntary for now. The 2026 data indicates an overall increase in EU return operations compared to the previous year, with voluntary returns remaining the majority of cases supported by Frontex.