NGO petition Brussels to end Austria's freeze on family-reunification Visas for asylum seekers
A coalition of humanitarian organizations has urged the European Commission to take legal action against Austria over its ongoing freeze on family reunification visas for asylum seekers.
Eight NGOs formally submitted a complaint in Brussels, arguing that Austria’s suspension of these visas—introduced in March 2025 and extended until at least June 2026—violates EU law and international child protection agreements.
The groups, including SOS Mitmensch, Caritas Europa, and Save the Children, claim the policy breaches key provisions of the EU Family Reunification Directive and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. They are calling for infringement proceedings against Austria.
Austria’s government has defended the measure, stating it is legal under the EU Migration and Asylum Pact. Officials argue the freeze acts as an “integrations-capacity brake” to prevent social systems from becoming overwhelmed and say it will eventually be replaced with a quota system.
Critics say the policy has separated nearly 7,000 recognized refugees from their spouses and children, causing emotional distress and slowing integration. Data also suggests that refugees reunited with their families find stable employment significantly faster than those living alone.
Employers in sectors facing labor shortages have also raised concerns, warning that the restrictions make it harder to retain skilled workers whose ability to stay depends on family stability.
The European Commission is expected to review the complaint within weeks, though a final decision on whether to launch legal proceedings could take up to a year. If action is taken, Austria could face financial penalties or be forced to change its policy.