Dublin rules: what they mean for you

Who is this for

People who gave fingerprints, applied or stayed in another European country before Italy, or who have family elsewhere in Europe.

Requirements

Nothing is needed for the rules to apply to you. The Dublin system (now Regulation 2024/1351, applicable since 12 June 2026) decides which country examines your application.

Steps

1. Fingerprints match. If Eurodac or visa records show you were elsewhere, Italy can ask that country to take you in (a "take charge" or "take back" request). Italy's deadline is normally 2 months from registration, or 1 month after a database hit. Replies are due within about 1 month, or 2 weeks in some cases.
2. Family can help. Close relatives (spouse, minor children, parents of minors) in another country can make that country responsible. For unaccompanied minors, relatives are also considered. Tell the Questura about your family at the start and give names and contacts.
3. If a transfer decision is made, you receive it in writing and can appeal. Get a lawyer at once; the deadline is short (TO VERIFY the exact number of days). The transfer must happen within 6 months, or up to 3 years if you are considered to be absconding or resist.
4. Special situations. Serious problems in the receiving country, health reasons and a risk of inhuman treatment can stop a transfer. Italian courts have blocked transfers to some countries.

Costs & timing

Free. The Dublin phase can take months.

Common mistakes

• Not mentioning earlier fingerprints. Hiding facts hurts you.
• Leaving Italy to join relatives without a procedure. This can be treated as absconding and cause delays.
• Not telling your lawyer about family elsewhere in Europe.

Where to get help

Free, confidential help exists. You never need to pay anyone to apply or to appeal. See "Free help for people seeking protection" (protection-free-help-directory) and the UNHCR Italy help site (https://help.unhcr.org/italy/). If you are in danger now, call 112 (free emergency number).