Greek government faces lawyer backlash over 250‑euro bonus for voluntary deportations

The Greek ministries of Migration, Justice and Finance issued a new ministerial decision (KYA No. 120961/2026, published 30 June in the Government Gazette) that grants lawyers a bonus of €250 plus VAT for each asylum seeker who, after a free legal‑guidance session at the borders, files a request for voluntary departure within two months. The bonus is paid after the deportation is completed. Sessions may involve up to 15 (or, in exceptional cases, 50) participants, last no more than two hours, and are supervised by immigration‑ministry officials. Only lawyers registered in a special roster kept by the Athens Bar Association may conduct them.

Greek lawyers and bar associations have condemned the measure, calling it a “bounty‑hunter” scheme that breaches the Code of Lawyers, the Code of Professional Conduct and constitutional provisions. The Coordinating Committee of Presidents of the Greek Bar Associations has refused to implement the bonus, demanding its immediate repeal and a meeting with the migration minister. The New Left party also urges withdrawal, arguing the provision undermines professional independence and the humanitarian basis of asylum procedures.