Italy softens controversial ‘repatriation-bonus’ for asylum lawyers after presidential warning

Italy’s Council of Ministers moved at lightning speed on 24 April to defuse a brewing constitutional row over the so-called “repatriation-bonus” introduced only weeks ago as part of a wider public-security decree. The original article—drafted by League lawmakers and approved by parliament the same morning—would have paid €615 to lawyers only if they successfully persuaded a migrant to accept assisted voluntary return.



Individuals and companies navigating Italy's shifting immigration landscape can also tap digital facilitators such as VisaHQ, which streamlines visa applications, document legalisation and residence-permit filings through its dedicated Italy portal (https://www.visahq.com/italy/). The service supplies up-to-date guidance that can dovetail with the work of lawyers or other accredited counsellors now set to receive government fees under the amended scheme.

President Sergio Mattarella signalled he might refuse to promulgate the text because the success-based payment could undermine the right to an impartial defence. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni therefore adopted a second, emergency decree within hours of the first being passed. The amendment broadens eligibility beyond lawyers to other accredited counsellors, removes the “success only” clause so that compensation is no longer tied to a migrant’s departure, and earmarks €1.4 million through 2028—slightly more than the initial envelope. Government sources insist the scheme will accelerate returns and ease pressure on reception centres without violating legal ethics. Italy removed just 3,604 people in 2025—less than 10 % of final rejection orders—so policymakers are desperate for new incentives. Critics remain unconvinced. The National Bar Council says any cash reward risks turning defenders into arms of the state. Human-rights NGOs add that assisted return must remain strictly voluntary and accompanied by reintegration safeguards; otherwise Italy could face litigation before the European Court of Human Rights. For employers and relocation managers the immediate takeaway is that repatriation counselling—previously an unfunded activity—may now qualify for government fees. Legal-services providers should review eligibility rules once the Interior Ministry issues implementing guidelines, expected within 30 days.