This Inform maps national approaches to the safe country of origin (SCO) and safe third country (STC) concepts, in the context of the forthcoming Asylum Procedure Regulation applicable from June 2026. It compares legislation, policies and practices governing the designation and application of SCOs and STCs, including the use of national lists, ad hoc assessments and accelerated asylum procedures. The analysis was prepared on the basis of contributions from 26 EMN Member and Observer Countries.

This ad hoc query, which informed the preparation of an EMN Inform, collected information on national lists of safe countries of origin and safe third countries, including their adoption and use. It examined exceptions for specific regions or categories of applicants and the procedures applied to their claims. It also explored the application of the safe third country concept, including assessments, safeguards and practical challenges. Finally, it gathered information on sources used, case law, good practices and planned adaptations to the new Asylum Procedure Regulation.

After difficult negotiations between the Council and the EP the recast of this directive have been adopted. Background information, state of play and case law regarding this directive can be found here.

Today, Wednesday 12 June, the European Parliament voted the final adoption of the asylum package. The new rules lay down common procedures for handling asylum applications and basic rights for asylum seekers.

Coreper reached an agreement today on the final two legislative texts forming part of the Common European Asylum System (CEAS).

The Justice and Home Affairs Council, including the Belgian Ministers Joëlle Milquet and Annemie Turtelboom, and State Secretary Maggie De Block, met on 6 and 7 December 2012. The ministers also discussed issues concerning Immigration and Asylum.