European Citizenship & Residency News
English briefings for the European citizenship and residency tracks hosted on Prep2Go.
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Portugal's AIMA Launches Online Portal for EU Citizen Residence Permit Renewals Expiring by December 2026
Portugal's Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) has launched an online portal for EU citizens and their family members to create accounts and begin renewing their residence permits. This applies to documents that have expired or will expire by December 31, 2026, streamlining the initial application step.
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Estonian Agency (EIS) to Invest €4 Million in Global Marketing for e-Residency and Tourism
The Estonian Entrepreneurship and Innovation Agency (EIS) is launching significant international marketing campaigns. Up to €1 million will be allocated to promote the e-Residency program, and up to €3 million will be dedicated to tourism marketing.
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Zagreb Protest Scheduled for October 10, 2026: Landlords and Entrepreneurs Oppose New Regulations
Private landlords, artisans, and entrepreneurs in Zagreb are set to protest on October 10, 2026, against new 'anchor price' rules, tax burdens, and tourism reform. This demonstration could directly affect expats who own rental properties or operate small businesses in Croatia.
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France: October 2026 Brings Tax Aid, Residency Permit Updates, and Fuel Support
France introduces several changes in October 2026, including new tax assistance for residents, updated procedures for residency permit (VNJ) renewals, and renewed fuel aid. The Local details these key updates for those living in France.
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Germany's Citizenship Test: A Memory Challenge or True Integration Measure?
A debate is ongoing regarding Germany's citizenship test, an essential step for naturalization. Critics, including politicians, argue it's too easy and primarily tests memorization rather than genuine integration into German society. Public opinion is divided, with some agreeing it's a simple memory test, while others
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Portugal: Parties Propose Restricting National Health Service Access for Non-Residents
Portugal's PSD and CDS-PP parties have reintroduced a bill to limit access to the National Health Service (SNS) for non-resident foreigners. A similar proposal previously gained parliamentary support but failed to become law due to early elections. This could impact those awaiting residency.
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Portugal's PSD and CDS-PP Propose New Restrictions on Public Healthcare Access for Non-Residents
Portugal's PSD and CDS-PP parties have reintroduced a bill to restrict access to the National Health Service (SNS) for non-resident foreigners. A similar proposal passed in the previous legislative session but was nullified by early elections, prompting this renewed effort to prioritize residents.
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Linz Offers Cheaper Rent Than Vienna or Salzburg, But Overall Costs Remain Consistent Across Austria
While Linz stands out for its significantly lower rental costs compared to major Austrian cities like Vienna or Salzburg, a recent analysis by The Local Austria reveals that other essential expenses such as groceries, insurance, and leisure activities are comparable nationwide. Prospective residents should consider a f
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British Citizen Faces Deportation from Sweden and 4-Year Schengen Ban After Missing Post-Brexit Residence Deadline
Paul Hownam, a British citizen, was stopped in Malmö on September 15, 2026, and found to be without a residence permit. He failed to apply for post-Brexit residence status by the 2021 deadline, now facing deportation within 10 days and a four-year ban from the Schengen Area.
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Spain's Housing Crisis: Corridors Rented for €500 Amidst Soaring Rents and Evictions
Spain is experiencing a severe housing crisis, with reports from The Local detailing instances of people renting corridors for €500 per month. The scarcity of affordable housing is leading to extreme measures and evictions, such as that of 87-year-old Maricarmen, highlighting the challenges faced by residents and prosp
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Spain: Tenant Unions Demand New Housing Law Following Madrid Pensioner Eviction
On September 26, 2026, Spanish tenant unions urged the government to pass a new housing law. This demand was triggered by the eviction of an 87-year-old woman in Madrid, an incident that sparked nationwide protests and highlighted concerns about tenant protection.
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Croatia: 90 Days Visa-Free for Remote Workers with Schengen Entry Rights
Remote workers eligible for Schengen visa-free entry can stay and work in Croatia for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without needing a digital nomad visa. Zagreb offers an ideal three-month setup, requiring no income proof or extensive documentation.
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Austria: EU Citizens Face Deportation for Public Order, Security, or Health Threats
EU citizens residing in Austria may be expelled or deported if they pose a threat to public order, security, or health. Decisions are made individually, must be justified and proportionate, and include the right to appeal.
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Sweden to Implement Stricter Family Reunification Law from October 1, 2026
Sweden will introduce a new law on family reunification on October 1, 2026, tightening requirements for income, housing, and other criteria. This change is part of the Tidö government's broader immigration policy, affecting those planning to bring relatives to Sweden.
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Hauts-de-Seine Prefecture Faces Criticism Over Residence Permit Renewal Delays
Over 200 elected officials and 20 associations have accused the Hauts-de-Seine prefecture (near Paris) of severe delays in processing residence permit renewals. Hundreds of legal foreign residents are left without valid documents, impacting their ability to work, access services, and risking deportation.
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France: Automatic Residence Permit Renewal Proposal Stalled in Senate After National Assembly Approval
A proposal to automatically renew certain long-term French residence permits passed the National Assembly but has stalled in the Senate. Until the bill becomes law, applicants must continue to follow the standard renewal procedures.
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Germany: Spouses of Skilled Workers Can Get Permanent Residency in 3 Years, If Employed
Spouses of skilled workers in Germany can now apply for permanent residency in just three years, a significant reduction from the standard period. This accelerated path is conditional on the spouse being employed themselves; the partner's employment alone does not qualify.
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Seven Arrests at Protest Against Asylum Seeker Center in Gelderland, Netherlands
Police dispersed a protest in Kesteren, Gelderland, against a planned asylum seeker center, leading to seven arrests after fireworks were thrown and violence threatened. This incident highlights local tensions that may affect accommodation and integration for applicants in the Netherlands.