European Citizenship & Residency News
English briefings for the European citizenship and residency tracks hosted on Prep2Go.
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Estonia Considers Allowing Dual Citizenship for Birthright Citizens
Estonia's coalition government is discussing potential amendments that would allow individuals who obtained Estonian citizenship by birth to retain it even if they acquire citizenship in another country. Current law generally prohibits dual citizenship, with limited exceptions.
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Estonia to Reintroduce Blue Passports from 2030 with Enhanced Security Features
Estonia's Ministry of Interior has announced that civil passports will revert to blue covers starting in 2030. This change is part of a modernization effort that will also introduce new anti-counterfeiting security features to meet international standards.
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Norway Cuts Free Legal Aid for Immigrants, Impacting Access to Justice
Norway is reducing funding for free legal aid for immigrants, potentially leaving thousands without support in disputes over housing, employment, and immigration status. With legal costs in Norway being high, many may struggle to afford necessary representation.
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Denmark to Update Work Permit Rules for Citizens of 16 Countries Starting January 1, 2027
Denmark will introduce new work permit conditions on January 1, 2027, impacting citizens from 16 specific countries. While full details are pending, these changes may affect processing times, qualification requirements, and application procedures. Applicants should monitor official Danish sources.
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Germany: 9 in 10 Renters Support Stricter Penalties for Excessive Rents
A recent survey ahead of Berlin's housing summit reveals overwhelming support among German renters for tougher penalties against landlords violating the Mietpreisbremse (rent brake). Proposed measures include stricter controls, increased fines, and simplified procedures for tenants to challenge inflated rental rates.
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Foreign Property Purchases in Spain See Sharpest Decline Since 2020
Foreign buyers, particularly non-residents, have significantly reduced property purchases in Spain, marking the sharpest decline since 2020. This shift, reported by The Local, could influence housing prices and market competition for those considering buying in Spain.
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Portugal: Half Income Tax Withholding for Workers and Pensioners Until December
Portugal's government has temporarily halved income tax (IRS) withholding for workers and pensioners in mainland Portugal. This measure, effective until December, means an immediate increase in net income, including Christmas bonuses, before deductions return to normal levels.
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Croatia to Mandate Registration Numbers for All Short-Term Rentals by 2027
The Croatian government plans to adopt a new Hospitality Activities Act by year-end. Starting in 2027, all short-term rental properties, including apartments, rooms, and holiday homes, will require unique registration numbers and undergo re-categorization every 10 years.
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Cyprus Aims to Be Eastern Mediterranean AI Hub by 2032
Cyprus is developing a national AI strategy with the goal of becoming the Eastern Mediterranean's AI hub by 2032. Announced by Deputy Minister Nikodemos Damianou, this initiative focuses on enhancing public services and strengthening five key economic sectors, signaling new opportunities for IT professionals and invest
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Norway: Income Requirements for Permanent Residence Explained
Norway's UDI considers income a primary factor for Permanent Residence (ПМЖ). Applicants must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency to avoid state assistance. The exact minimum income changes, so checking official UDI sources is crucial to ensure your application meets current requirements.
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Denmark: Growing Political Support for Mandatory Citizenship Interviews
Support is increasing in the Danish Parliament for introducing mandatory interviews for citizenship applicants. This potential change could significantly alter the application process, adding new requirements for those seeking Danish nationality and potentially extending processing times.
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Navigating French Residency: Tax Changes for UK Citizens, Property Rules for Canadians, and Key Steps for All
The Local outlines key considerations for those moving to France: UK citizens face significant changes in tax status and income taxation, while Canadians must navigate distinct French property rules, including notarial fees, capital gains, and inheritance laws. Professional advice is crucial for all.
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French Rent Increases Are Capped by a National Index, Not Landlord Discretion
In France, landlords cannot arbitrarily raise rent. Increases are limited by the Index de Référence des Loyers (IRL), published quarterly by INSEE. This index sets a maximum ceiling, ensuring rent adjustments are predictable and tied to economic indicators, protecting tenants from unexpected hikes.
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Dutch Senate Abolishes IND Delay Compensation for All Residence Permit Categories
The Dutch Senate has passed a new law eliminating financial compensation for delays in IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) application processing. This change affects all residence permit categories, including highly skilled migrants, students, and family reunification applicants, not just asylum seekers.
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Portugal's Golden Visa: A Catalyst for Investment and Urban Transformation
The Portugal News reports on how the Golden Visa program significantly boosted foreign investment in Portugal, driving capital into real estate, business, and job creation. While the program has evolved, its initial impact on modernizing cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Braga remains evident.
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Cyprus Residence Permit Renewals Go Online for Specific Categories from January 2027
Starting January 1, 2027, Cyprus will transition certain residence permit (ВНЖ) renewal applications to an online-only format. This change will affect employees of foreign-owned companies, domestic workers, and individuals applying for family reunification, aiming to streamline the process.
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Cyprus FinTech Sector Nears 200 Companies, Driving Demand for IT and Finance Professionals
Cyprus's FinTech sector is rapidly expanding, with nearly 200 companies, over half specializing in payment services. This growth fuels demand for IT, finance, and cybersecurity experts. The island is also attracting foreign firms, particularly from India, as a strategic entry point into the EU market.
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Austrian Universities Introduce In-Person Entrance Exams for Applicants from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh
Austrian universities have implemented new requirements, mandating in-person entrance exams for applicants from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. This change affects the application process, requiring prospective students to plan for travel and additional logistics to complete their admissions.