Regularising undocumented immigrants in Greece: procedures and effects
Titel:
Regularising undocumented immigrants in Greece: procedures and effects
Auteur:
Fakiolas, Rossetos
Verschenen in:
Journal of ethnic and migration studies
Paginering:
Jaargang 29 (2003) nr. 3 pagina's 535-561
Jaar:
2003-05
Inhoud:
This article examines the administrative procedures and results of the two legalisations in Greece in 1998 and 2001. Although the massive inflow of foreign immigrants had started in the late 1980s, the number of foreigners granted residence and work permits was restricted, causing a large stock of undocumented immigrants and creating the mentality that these economic immigrants are a new source of low-cost unregistered labour. Following the two legalisations, an increasing number of foreigners have progressed towards integration. Little has changed, however, in the other main aspects of immigration to Greece: not all undocumented immigrants have applied for legalisation; for various reasons many do not renew their green card when it expires; new or previously expelled migrants flock in, attracted by the demand for their flexible labour and facilitated by the large underground economy; around 230,000 expulsions continue to take place annually; and there is no indication as to how things are likely to develop after the new extension given to all permits until 30 June 2003. Under the present conditions of high unemployment, increasing economic uncertainty and political tension in the country, a third legalisation within a short time-frame may cause serious social reactions. The main challenge to migration policy now is how to effectively control migrant inflows and prevent legal immigrants, who also help to redress the serious demographic imbalances in Greece, from lapsing into illegality.
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