This article analyses the impact of recent reforms in the Common European Asylum System on the governance structure of asylum and border policies of the European Union (EU). Drawing on the Core State Power framework and New Intergovernmentalism, we argue that recent regulations have significantly strengthened Frontex and the European Union Agency for Asylum (previously known as European Asylum Support Office) and therefore contribute to independent capacity building at the EU level. Interestingly, much of this capacity existed before it was codified by EU law, showing a remarkable trend of ex post judicialization. The Migration Forum suggested in the Asylum and Migration Management Regulation, however, is largely intergovernmental and thus rather confirms expectations of New Intergovernmentalist theories. Moreover, the proposals to enhance solidarity remain cautious and suggest no significant sovereignty transfers.