European Citizenship & Residency News
English briefings for the European citizenship and residency tracks hosted on Prep2Go.
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French Presidential Candidate Zemmour Proposes Deporting Unemployed Legal Residents
Éric Zemmour, a far-right politician, has announced his candidacy for the French presidency. A key part of his platform includes the deportation of unemployed foreigners, even those who hold legal residency status (titre de séjour) in France.
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Germany Considers Stricter Rent Control to Close Loopholes
The Deutscher Mieterbund (German Tenants' Association) is advocating for stricter rent control measures, particularly in high-demand areas. Proposed changes aim to close loopholes that allow landlords to bypass payment increase restrictions, potentially affecting new and existing rental contracts.
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10 Arrested at Protest Against Asylum Center in Opheusden, Netherlands
Police dispersed a demonstration in Opheusden, Gelderland, against the opening of an asylum seekers' center. Approximately 300 people gathered near the municipal council building, where the housing of 132 refugees was being discussed. At least 10 individuals were arrested following clashes with law enforcement.
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Netherlands Asylum Registrations Drop Below 600 Per Week, A Third Lower Than Autumn 2025
The Dutch Ministry of Asylum Affairs reports a significant drop in weekly asylum registrations, falling below 600 for the first time this year. This marks a decrease of approximately one-third compared to the 1,000 weekly registrations seen in Autumn 2025.
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Fitch Upgrades Portugal's Credit Rating to A+, Enhancing Golden Visa Investment Appeal
Fitch Ratings has upgraded Portugal's sovereign credit rating to A+, its highest in 15 years. This upgrade signals increased stability for investments, potentially making Portugal's Golden Visa program more attractive to applicants seeking secure opportunities.
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Portugal to Distribute AIMA Immigration Court Cases Across Regional Courts
Portugal's parliament has proposed a significant change to how immigration disputes with AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum) are handled. Instead of all cases going to a single Lisbon court, regional courts across the country will now hear them, aiming to reduce backlogs and accelerate decision-making f
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Estonia Faces Electrician Shortage, Opens New Training Center in Tartu College
Estonia is experiencing a significant shortage of field electricians, particularly those working with networks. In response, Tartu Vocational College has launched a new training center for power grid technicians, aiming to address this skills gap and potentially creating opportunities for qualified foreign electricians
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Hungarian Wages Rise 7.5% in July 2026, Outpacing Inflation
Hungary's average gross income increased by 7.5% year-on-year in July 2026, according to the Central Statistical Office (KSH). This acceleration from June's 7.1% growth indicates that wage increases are significantly outpacing inflation, leading to a real boost in purchasing power for residents.
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Health Insurance in Austria: Essential Steps for Moving Without a Job Offer
Moving to Austria without a job? Securing health insurance is crucial for your visa or residency application. Learn how EU citizens, third-country nationals, and returning Austrians can navigate state and private insurance options to ensure compliance and avoid application rejection.
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Norway's Immigration Decisions: Understanding the Roles of UDI, UNE, and Ministers
In Norway, immigration and asylum applications are processed through a multi-layered system involving the Directorate of Immigration (UDI), the Immigration Appeals Board (UNE), and government ministers. Understanding each level's role is crucial for applicants.
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Financial Aid for Leaving Norway: Who Qualifies for Departure Support?
Norway offers financial and logistical support for foreign nationals leaving the country, including those departing voluntarily and those who have lost their right to stay. However, strict criteria apply to eligibility, based on citizenship, status, and reasons for departure.
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Denmark to Raise Salary Thresholds for Work Visas from October 1, 2026
Denmark will update minimum salary requirements for its three main work permit schemes – Pay Limit, Fast Track, and Positive List – effective October 1, 2026. New thresholds will apply to all applications submitted on or after this date.
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Eurostat Reveals Top 5 Nationalities Receiving First Danish Residence Permits in 2025
Eurostat data shows the five nationalities that received the most first-time residence permits in Denmark in 2025. This information highlights the primary countries of origin for new Danish residents, offering insights into current migration trends.
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Denmark Issued Nearly 50,000 Initial Residence Permits Last Year, US and India Top Nationalities
Eurostat data reveals Denmark granted almost 50,000 initial residence permits in the past year. Citizens from the United States and India received the highest number of these permits, highlighting key demographics among new residents.
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Marine Le Pen Proposes 'National Preference' in France for Housing, Jobs, and Benefits
National Rally leader Marine Le Pen has proposed giving French citizens priority over foreigners for housing, employment, and social benefits. If implemented, this policy would effectively place non-citizens in a secondary queue for essential services and opportunities.
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Workplace Discrimination Cases Rise in Germany: Know Your Rights Under the AGG
New statistics reveal an increase in workplace discrimination cases in Germany. The General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) provides legal protection and avenues for compensation. Foreign workers and expats should be aware of their rights and how to act promptly if they experience discrimination.
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Berlin Elections: Parties' Immigration and Citizenship Promises
Ahead of upcoming elections in Berlin, political parties have outlined their positions on immigration, residency, and naturalization. These proposals could significantly alter conditions for long-term residents and those seeking German citizenship or family reunification.
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Spain: Popular Party Proposes Revoking Naturalized Citizenship for Serious Crimes
Spain's Popular Party (PP) has introduced a bill that would allow judges to revoke Spanish citizenship from naturalized foreigners convicted of serious crimes. This measure would apply only to those who obtained citizenship through naturalization, not to residents.