MEPs adopt new rules updating Single Permit Directive

Article summary

MEPs have adopted new rules updating Directive 2011/98/EU (the Single Permit Directive). Under the rules, work and residence permits for nationals of third countries will be issued more quickly and their rights will also be improved. The timeframe within which a decision should be made on applications for a single permit has been reduced from four months to 90 days. This limit excludes the period of time taken to deliver the visa. Time limits in complex applications may be extended by a further 30 days. The new rules allow for single permit holders to change employers, occupation and the work sector. A simple notification by the new employer will suffice and national authorities will have 45 days to oppose the change. If a permit holder becomes unemployed, they will have up to three months to find another job before the permit is withdrawn. In cases where a permit was held for over two years, the holder will have...