The European Union is undergoing reforms aimed at facilitating the acquisition of work and residency permits by foreign workers, with the objective of tackling labor shortages and fostering legal migration. The European Parliament is in favor of simplifying regulations to establish a Single Permit system. This initiative awaits final endorsement from the Council before implementation.

The latest update brings forth various modifications designed to improve the effectiveness and adaptability of the Single Permit system.

The updated regulations introduce several enhancements to the Single Permit system, including expedited application processing, the ability for permit holders to change employers, and extended support for unemployed permit holders.

Decisions on Single Permit applications must now be made within a 90-day period, reducing the previous waiting time by one month, with an option for a 30-day extension in complex cases. Moreover, third-country nationals with existing residence permits can now apply for a Single Permit within the EU, eliminating the need to return to their home countries for the application process.

Furthermore, under the new rules, Single Permit holders have the freedom to switch employers, occupations, and work sectors by simply notifying the new employer. However, some EU Member States may impose a six-month restriction on employer changes, except in cases of employer contract violations.

Additionally, the updated directive provides increased protection for unemployed Single Permit holders. They are granted up to three months to find alternative employment before their permits are revoked. For those holding Single Permits for over two years, there is an extended period of six months to secure employment within the EU, with possible extensions for those who were previously exploited. Permit holders unemployed for extended periods must demonstrate self-sufficiency to avoid relying on social assistance.

The approval of these new rules by the Council is pending, and once approved, Member States will have a two-year period to incorporate the changes into their national laws. It's noted that Denmark and Ireland are exempt from these changes, according to the SchengenVisaInfo report.