EU Policy on Migrants

The European Union's approach to migration and integration shapes the conditions in which newcomer entrepreneurs start, sustain, and grow businesses across Europe.

An overview of European Union migration and integration policy, including the Pact on Migration and Asylum, the Action Plan on Integration and Inclusion, and key EU funding programmes.

EU policy on migrants sits at the intersection of asylum, border management, integration, and labour-market inclusion. While Member States retain primary responsibility for many areas, the EU provides common rules, funding instruments, and coordination frameworks that directly affect the lives of newcomers — including those who want to build businesses in Europe.

Adopted in 2024 and in application since 12 June 2026, the Pact is a set of ten legislative files designed to strengthen and harmonise the EU's approach to migration and asylum. It establishes common rules on screening, asylum procedures, crisis response, and solidarity among Member States.

Action Plan on Integration and Inclusion 2021–2027

The Commission's Action Plan sets out a framework for inclusive integration and social cohesion. It covers access to employment, skills recognition, education, health, and housing, and recognises migrant entrepreneurs as a specific group deserving targeted support.

Several EU policy fields shape whether newcomers can turn their skills and ambitions into viable businesses.

EU rules on labour migration, including the Single Permit Directive and the EU Blue Card, determine how quickly newcomers can enter the labour market — a critical step before many can become entrepreneurs.

The Recognition of Professional Qualifications Directive and initiatives such as the EU Talent Pool and the Skills Mobility Gateway aim to make foreign skills visible and usable in the EU labour market.

The European Commission and the OECD have highlighted migrant entrepreneurs as engines of job creation and innovation. Yet few Member States have dedicated support structures within mainstream enterprise policy.

Equal treatment directives, integration coordination networks, and the European Partnership for Integration reinforce the principle that inclusion is a precondition for economic contribution.

A range of EU funds can support programmes that help newcomers integrate economically and socially.

With a budget of EUR 10.94 billion for 2021–2027, AMIF supports national capacities for migration management, solidarity between Member States, and integration measures for third-country nationals.

ESF+ invests in employment, education, skills, and social inclusion. It can fund language training, skills assessments, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support for migrants and refugees.

ERDF and broader cohesion policy funds can finance local economic development, business incubators, and regional integration programmes that benefit newcomer entrepreneurs.

Starting New translates EU policy developments into practical insight for newcomer entrepreneurs, ecosystem organisations, and policymakers. Explore our EU Inc. response or get involved in the coalition.