New EU work visa agreement could reduce refugee numbers

The Ifo Center for International Institutional Comparisons and Migration Research proposes work visa agreements between the EU and safe third countries as a way to reduce asylum applications and illegal immigration.

Under this agreement, work visas could be granted for a limited period of time. They could also be restricted so that visa holders would not have access to social benefits. "Immigrants could apply for a work visa and enter the EU legally without having to pay smugglers or make the dangerous journey across the Mediterranean," says Yvonne Giesing, research associate at the ifo Center for International Institutional Comparisons and Migration Research.

"One reason the European asylum system is overloaded is the lack of opportunities to enter the EU legally. Especially for low-skilled people, the chances of obtaining work visas in Europe are vanishingly small," said Panu Poutvaara, Director of the ifo Center for International Institutional Comparisons and Migration Research. Citizens of countries that have such an agreement with the EU can apply for a visa to work in the EU regardless of their qualifications.

In Luxembourg, foreigners make up a large part of the population and their number is constantly growing. According to the latest STATEC study of January 1, 2024, the population reached 672,050, an increase of 1.7% compared to the previous year. Migration accounted for most of the population growth, with Portuguese citizens being the largest immigrant group. In 2023, 26,964 new residents entered the country.