In 2024, Malta made significant strides in addressing the complex issue of irregular immigration. According to Police Superintendent Kylie Borg, a total of 1,728 individuals were returned to their home countries after being found living in Malta without the necessary documentation. This issue highlights the multifaceted challenges posed by illegal residence and the government’s determination to combat such cases effectively.

Irregular immigration in Malta primarily involves individuals from outside the European Union, as EU citizens are permitted to travel and work freely across member states. Illegal residency often occurs in one of two main ways. Firstly, some individuals enter the country without a valid visa or permit, rendering their presence unlawful from the outset. Secondly, there are those who initially enter Malta legally, such as tourists or students, but fail to renew their permits and subsequently remain without the required authorisation. Additionally, some cases involve people engaging in unauthorised employment without proper documentation. These scenarios are not unique to Malta and are reflective of challenges faced by nations worldwide.

The Maltese government has expressed its commitment to addressing this issue, emphasising the need to protect the rights of lawful residents while preventing exploitation and misuse of the system. Authorities stress that such actions benefit not only Malta and its citizens but also the individuals involved, who often face precarious conditions when living outside the law.

The Immigration Police play a pivotal role in identifying and addressing cases of illegal residency. Inspections are regularly carried out across Malta and Gozo, with the police relying both on their proactive operations and information provided by the public. These activities are conducted within a strict legal framework, as outlined in Chapter 9 of the Laws of Malta and the Immigration Act (Chapter 217). Fundamental human rights remain a cornerstone of these operations, ensuring that all actions are conducted with dignity and respect for the individuals involved.

When individuals are found without proper documentation during these inspections, they are detained to verify their identity and determine the legality of their stay. If they are confirmed to be residing illegally, they are issued removal and return orders, which they have the right to appeal to the Immigration Appeals Board. Those with a high likelihood of being returned are detained in designated centres until the process is completed.

Police training is a critical component of ensuring the effectiveness and fairness of these operations. Officers receive specialised instruction on arrest and detention procedures, as well as on identifying fraudulent or invalid documentation. This training is conducted both locally and internationally to equip officers with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of immigration cases.

The issue of illegal residency does not end with the individuals themselves. When investigations uncover employers or landlords who have facilitated such unlawful arrangements, legal proceedings are initiated against them. This approach is part of a broader effort to address not just the symptoms but also the root causes of irregular immigration.

The figures for 2024 reflect the ongoing work of the Maltese authorities to uphold the integrity of the country’s immigration system. By ensuring that operations are both thorough and respectful of human rights, Malta aims to strike a balance between maintaining lawful order and protecting the dignity of all individuals affected by these issues. This comprehensive approach shows the nation’s commitment to addressing irregular immigration in a manner that is both effective and just.