Family reunification is one of the most important areas of the migration policy in the European Union. Historically, the State retained the sovereign power to decide who could enter its territory. However, the power of the State to set its immigration policy has shifted with the involvement of the European Union. The State is no longer solely competent in matters of immigration. The exact division of powers between European and national bodies is complex. For example, the right of the migrant to bring their family members into the European Union varies depending on whether the migrant is a European citizen exercising his or her free movement rights, or a third-country national.
Suggested citation: Diego Acosta, ‘Immigration in the European Union: Family Reunification after the Metock Case’ (2008) 9 UCD Law Review 64-88.
