European Council adopts directive to attract highly qualified workers

Article summary

The European Council has adopted the blue card directive which establishes the entry and residence conditions for highly qualified non-EU nationals who wish to reside in the EU. The aim of the directive is to combat the skills shortages some sectors are facing and stimulate economic growth by attracting and retaining highly qualified workers. The directive will replace the existing rules with the desired effect of consolidating the EU’s position as a top global destination for the best talent. The new rules will consolidate the conditions of entry and residence in the EU, encouraging intra-EU mobility and providing more inclusive admission standards. EU Member States will be able to maintain national schemes aimed at highly qualified workers in parallel with the EU blue card scheme. However, the directive will ensure that EU blue card holders are offered the same advantage as national permit holders.