On Wednesday, 3 December 2025, the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee (LIBE) approved a package of migration and border-management reforms, paving the way for full Parliament votes and talks with EU governments. The measures cover asylum procedures, returns, and digital border checks — a major update to the EU’s migration system.
The reforms introduce faster asylum processing, clearer rules for returns, and a new digital system for border checks. Here is what was decided at the committee level, with vote counts showing some significant opposition on the safe country and safe third country files.
Safe countries of origin
MEPs voted 39 in favour, 25 against, and 8 abstentions to approve the EU’s first common list of “safe countries of origin,” including Bangladesh, Colombia, Egypt, India, Kosovo, Morocco and Tunisia. The list allows authorities to fast-track applications from these countries while still assessing individual risk. Countries can be suspended or partially excluded if conditions deteriorate, and applicants from nationalities with very low asylum recognition rates may enter accelerated procedures.
Rapporteur Alessandro Ciriani (ECR/ITA) described the measure as a “crucial step toward clearer and enforceable tools for managing migration flows,” noting that under the 2024 Asylum Procedure Regulation, applications from safe countries should generally be examined within three months unless there are exceptional circumstances.
Supporters say the list will harmonise decisions and reduce backlogs across the EU. But critics warn that instability and uneven rights protections in some listed countries could put applicants at risk if procedures move too quickly. Others have highlighted that national authorities may struggle to maintain thorough assessments under accelerated timelines.
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Safe Third country framework
When it came to safe third countries, the committee also voted 40 in favour, 32 against, with no abstentions to update the rules on returns to non-EU countries deemed safe. The “Safe Third Country” concept can now apply based on family or cultural ties, previous residence, transit through the country, or formal agreements. Unaccompanied minors are mostly exempt unless serious security concerns exist, and appeals will not automatically block returns.
Rapporteur Lena Düpont (EPP/DEU) said the new framework “brings long-needed coherence and gives member states the flexibility they need to apply the concept effectively and consistently.” She added that the regulation aims to make procedures faster, clearer and more effective, helping reduce irregular migration and increasing returns, while ensuring protection is granted where needed.
Supporters argue the changes bring clarity and coherence to the EU’s asylum system, while opponents caution that some “safe” transit countries offer limited protection, and broader application could restrict access to EU asylum procedures.
Digital pre-clearance for border checks
A voluntary digital travel-credential system was also endorsed, with the committee voting 42 in favour, 13 against, and 17 abstentions. Travellers can submit ID in advance to reduce border queues, though physical documents are still required. The system will integrate with the Entry-Exit System (EES) and, later, ETIAS.
Rapporteur Juan Fernando López Aguilar called the system a “transformative step” that will make border crossings faster, smoother, and more secure. Supporters highlighted the potential for shorter queues and improved efficiency, while sceptical MEPs raised concerns about data protection, possible exclusion of less tech-savvy travellers, and whether authorities have the resources to manage the system efficiently.
Next steps
With committee approval, the reforms now move to full parliamentary approval and if passed, to negotiations with member states. If adopted, they will speed up asylum procedures, expand returns, and introduce the EU’s first digital border-clearance tools. Supporters say the reforms are long-overdue.
