Refusal of Entry at the Border

Refusal of Entry at the Border: What to Do If You Are Denied Entry into Italy

Being stopped at the border and denied entry into Italy or the Schengen Area can be a distressing and isolating experience. But it is important to know that you have rights and that legal tools exist to protect you.

Beggin Law Firm assists foreign nationals in these situations, providing immediate support, including in urgent cases.

🚫 What Is Refusal of Entry?

Refusal of entry (respingimento alla frontiera) is an administrative measure issued by the Border Police preventing a foreign national from entering Italy (or the Schengen Area), typically at an airport, seaport, or land crossing.

It may occur when:

• You do not have a valid visa or proper travel documents

• You have overstayed your allowed time

• You are considered a threat to public order or security

• You lack sufficient financial means

• There are alerts in the Schengen Information System (SIS)

🔁 What Happens After Refusal?

A person refused entry is usually:

• Held in the transit area of the airport or at a border facility

• Returned to their country of origin on the next available flight

• Temporarily deprived of their passport and electronic devices

• Denied access to legal counsel, unless they insist or explicitly request it

🛡️ You Have Rights: Here’s What You Can Do

1. Request a Copy of the Decision

You are entitled to receive a written document stating the reasons for the refusal. This is essential for filing any legal appeal.

2. Contact a Lawyer Immediately

It is crucial to consult an immigration lawyer without delay. Beggin Law Firm is available even on holidays for urgent border-related cases.

3. Consider Filing an Appeal

Refusal of entry can be challenged within 30 days before the Civil Court – Immigration Section, especially if:

• You are a spouse or family member of an Italian or EU citizen

• You are a minor or vulnerable person

• You travel for health, study, work, or family reunification, with valid documents

• You fear for your safety in your home country and wish to seek asylum

4. Apply for Asylum

Anyone who fears torture, persecution, or serious danger in case of return has the right to apply for international protection directly at the border.
The law prohibits returning someone who makes a credible asylum request.

5. Contact Your Embassy or a Family Member

Informing your consulate or a trusted person can help you obtain legal support, translation assistance, and protection.

⚖️ How We Can Help

At Beggin Law Firm in Verona, we specialize in immigration law and appeals against unlawful refusals of entry. We offer:

• Immediate legal assistance at airports and border crossings

• Urgent filing of appeals with the competent court

• Consultation in multiple languages

• Support for family members and employers to provide guarantees or invitation letters

📞 Contact Us Immediately If:

• You were refused entry at the border

• A family member was detained at the airport

• You received a written or verbal refusal of entry

• You need to submit an urgent asylum request

Beggin Law Firm – Verona
We defend your rights from the very first moment. Don’t wait.