This ad hoc query maps EU Member States' plans to provide free legal counselling to applicants for international protection during their administrative procedure, as foreseen in the Asylum Procedures Regulation (APR). Reporting countries provide details on the entity responsible for providing legal counselling, the format (individual or group sessions), safeguards to guarantee quality counselling, as well as potential limits imposed (time or monetary) to receive such counselling.

On 20 May 2025, the European Commission put forward a proposal to revise the rules governing the application of the safe third country concept. The proposal, which inter alia removes the requirement to establish a connection between the applicant and the safe third country, is now subject to approval by the European Parliament and the Council. It has prompted a range of reactions, including expressions of support as well as more critical assessments.

After three years of negotiations, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union have reached an agreement on the core political elements of five key regulations that will thoroughly overhaul the EU's legal framework on asylum and migration. 

Today, Ministers responsible for Home Affairs reached an agreement on the asylum and migration management regulation and the asylum procedure regulation. Both laws are cornerstones of a new European migration and asylum policy.