(VOVWORLD) - Nationals of foreign countries will soon be able to obtain a single EU work and residence permit without having to deal with extended rules.
 Illustrative image (Photo: AFP) |
The EU Parliament and Council reached an agreement on a revised Single-Permit Directive this week, putting in place a single-application procedure for a combined EU work and residence permit.
In line with the revised rules, a common set of rights will apply to non-EU workers regarding recognition of qualifications, working conditions, social security, and tax benefits. Non-EU workers will also be subject to a minimum employment period during which their single work and residence permit will not be withdrawn.
Welcoming the agreement, the European Commission called it an important step in attracting foreign talent to areas facing severe shortages. The new rules will help the EU create a comprehensive, fair, and robust migration system.
The agreement will ensure that everyone gets treated equally and obliges EU countries to provide monitoring and inspection mechanisms as well as sanctions for employers who violate non-EU workers’ rights.
The agreement now needs to be formally approved to become effective.