The European Union streamlines the process for foreign workers to acquire integrated work and residency permits.

Here are the key points:

1. The EU is set to simplify the process for third-country nationals to obtain Single Permits.
2. Applicants for Single Permits will receive a decision within a maximum of 90 days.
3. Holders of Single Permits will have the flexibility to change employers, with added protections for the unemployed.

The European Union aims to streamline the acquisition of combined work and residence permits for foreign workers. This initiative is intended to facilitate legal migration of third-country nationals to the EU for employment and to address existing labor shortages within the bloc. The European Union Parliament has supported the simplification of the rules governing Single Permits, which grant permission to work and reside in the EU. However, final approval from the Council is required for these new rules to take effect.

The recent update, endorsed by a majority of Members of Parliament, introduces several significant changes aimed at improving the efficiency and adaptability of the Single Permit system. These changes include expedited decision-making processes, the ability to change employers, and extended rights for unemployed Single Permit holders.

A crucial change is the requirement for Member States to process Single Permit applications within a strict 90-day timeframe, reducing the current waiting period from four months. In cases requiring more extensive review, a 30-day extension may be granted. Additionally, third-country nationals holding valid residence permits will now be able to apply for Single Permits within the EU territory, eliminating the need to return to their home countries for application procedures.

Under the new rules, Single Permit holders will have the right to change employers, occupations, and work sectors with a simple notification to the new employer. Some Member States may impose a six-month restriction on changing employers, with exemptions for cases of employer contract breaches.

Spanish MEP Javier Moreno Sanchez emphasized the importance of legal migration in combatting irregular migration and human trafficking. He stressed the need to strengthen the rights of third-country workers and facilitate their integration to prevent labor exploitation.

Furthermore, unemployed Single Permit holders will receive increased protection under the updated directive. They will have up to three months to secure alternative employment before their permits are withdrawn. Those who have held permits for over two years will be given a six-month period to find employment and remain in the EU. Extensions may be granted for individuals subjected to exploitative work conditions.

Regarding financial support, permit holders facing prolonged unemployment may be required to demonstrate sufficient financial means to sustain themselves in the Member States without resorting to social assistance.

The new rules await approval by the Council, following which Member States will have two years to incorporate them into their national legislation. Denmark and Ireland are exempt from implementing these changes.