Denmark to tighten rules for refugees moving abroad

The Danish government aims to close a loophole in the law that allows refugees to live indefinitely outside Denmark without losing their residency permit. Immigration Minister Kaare Dybvad Bek argues that while individuals in need of protection should receive asylum, those who then choose to move to a third country, potentially with financial support from Denmark, should not retain unlimited residency rights. Currently, refugees can move to another country with financial support from Denmark without ever losing their residency. This ‘repatriation support’ amounts to a maximum of DKK 145,000. The proposed change aligns the residency cancellation rules for refugees with those for other foreigners, regardless of whether they repatriate to their home country or move to a third country. The government expects to present the bill in March, envisioning its implementation by June 1, 2025.