European Citizenship & Residency News
English briefings for the European citizenship and residency tracks hosted on Prep2Go.
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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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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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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.
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Norway to Significantly Reduce Free Legal Aid for Immigrants and Refugees
Norway is preparing to significantly reduce free legal assistance for immigrants and refugees. This change will impact consultations on residence status, family reunification, and administrative procedures, requiring applicants to seek paid alternatives or budget for legal services.
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Denmark to Lower Work Permit Salary Threshold by Nearly 20,000 DKK for 16 Countries Starting 2027
Starting January 1, 2027, Denmark will introduce a new work permit scheme tied to collective agreements. This will reduce the salary threshold by almost 20,000 DKK for citizens of 16 specific countries, aiming to attract skilled professionals.
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Danish Citizenship: Average Two-Year Processing Time Often Exceeded
While the official average processing time for Danish citizenship applications is two years, many applicants are experiencing significantly longer waits. High application volumes and administrative procedures are contributing to these extended timelines, according to The Local.
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Swedish MP Annika Hirvonen Proposes Changes to Deportation Rules for Minors and Citizenship Requirements
Green Party MP Annika Hirvonen has introduced parliamentary initiatives in Sweden to review rules for deporting minors, conditions for obtaining citizenship, and the status of Britons post-Brexit. A new parliamentary majority could potentially advance these proposals during the current term.
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French Citizenship Interview: 53 Potential Questions to Expect
The Local has compiled a list of 53 questions candidates might face during a French naturalization interview. These questions cover France's political system, history, culture, and your personal integration, aiming to assess your understanding and commitment to French society.
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German Federal Court Examines Constitutionality of Business Inheritance Tax Breaks
Germany's Federal Court is reviewing the constitutionality of its inheritance tax laws, specifically challenging the significant tax breaks currently granted to heirs of large business assets. This ongoing case could lead to substantial changes in tax obligations for business owners and expats.
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Spanish Supreme Court Bars Naturalized Citizens Residing Abroad from Voting in General Elections
Spain's Supreme Court has ruled that tens of thousands of naturalized citizens residing outside the country will not be eligible to vote in upcoming general elections. The court interpreted electoral law to exclude those who obtained citizenship but are not registered residents within Spain.
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New Spanish Housing Laws Lead to Reduced Rental Availability, Agencies Report
Estate agencies in Spain are reporting a significant drop in long-term rental availability following the implementation of new housing laws. Landlords are withdrawing properties from the market, leading to increased competition and rising prices for prospective tenants, including expats and relocators.
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Netherlands Senate Abolishes Compensation for Asylum Application Delays
The Dutch Senate has voted to end penalty payments for asylum seekers whose applications exceed the six-month processing period. This change affects all applicants, both current and future, meaning no state compensation will be provided for delays.
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Portugal's Business Sector and Job Market Grew in 2025, Led by Construction
Portugal's business sector expanded in 2025, with an increase in companies, new job opportunities, and higher turnover nationwide. The construction industry showed the strongest growth, indicating a strengthening economy and favorable business environment.