Commission proposes 30,000-strong Frontex corps with a national reserve
The European Commission proposed on 27 October 2026 to strengthen Frontex and gradually expand its standing corps to a capacity of 30,000 officers. The plan includes a 17,000-strong national reserve and a larger role in returns.
The capacity would comprise 6,000 Frontex staff, 7,000 officers seconded by participating states and the new reserve. Reservists would normally remain with their national administrations, so the headline total does not mean 30,000 new European recruits.
A Return Coordination Centre would support operations, while a Quick Reaction Force could intervene at a member state's request. The Commission also proposes a centre to monitor public online content linked to border risks.
A separate text would digitalise return, readmission and reintegration case management. These remain proposals requiring examination and adoption by the European Parliament and Council. The proposed new capacities are not already operational.