European Citizenship & Residency News
English briefings for the European citizenship and residency tracks hosted on Prep2Go.
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Estonian Police Detain Six Individuals Suspected of Illegal Stay at Tallinn Islamic Center
On August 20, 2026, Estonian police conducted an operation at the Tallinn Islamic Cultural Center, detaining six individuals suspected of illegal entry and unlawful presence in Estonia. This action highlights ongoing migration control efforts.
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Croatia: Annual Leave More Affordable, But Overall Standard of Living Remains a Challenge
As of August 20, 2026, Croatia has improved its standing in Europe regarding annual leave affordability. While this enhances work-life balance for residents, economist Ivica Brkljača notes that the overall standard of living remains challenging, though the long-term outlook appears softer.
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Danish Citizenship Test Pass Rate Reaches Five-Year High in June 2026
Nearly 60% of candidates passed the Danish citizenship test in June 2026, marking the highest pass rate in five years. This indicates that with proper preparation, the mandatory test on Danish society, culture, history, and politics is an achievable step towards citizenship.
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Iranian Academics Criticize Sweden's Strict Family Reunification Laws
Iranian academics in Sweden have voiced strong criticism regarding the country's family reunification rules, calling them excessively strict and inflexible. They argue that these laws lead to years of separation for families, impacting highly skilled professionals. The Local reported their concerns on August 20, 2026.
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Italian Banks Now Request Foreign Account Details Under New EU Anti-Money Laundering Directive
Under a new EU anti-money laundering directive, Italian banks are now requiring foreigners to provide documentation for accounts held outside the EU, such as in the UK or USA. Failure to comply could lead to account blocking or closure.
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German Justice Minister Proposes Right for Tenants to Install Air Conditioning
Germany's Justice Minister has proposed a significant change to housing law, aiming to grant tenants the right to install permanent air conditioning units without landlord consent. This move addresses rising summer temperatures and could simplify living conditions for renters, including expats and relocants.
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Spain's Government Proposes Housing Law to Cap Rents; Parliamentary Approval Uncertain in September
The Spanish government has drafted a housing bill aimed at limiting rent increases and providing greater stability for tenants. While the proposal is set to be sent to parliament for a vote in September, its approval is not guaranteed, introducing uncertainty for future rental market conditions.
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Foreign Investment Fuels Portugal's Economy: 22% of Jobs, 46% of Exports; Spain Leads Investors
According to Informa D&B, 17,000 foreign-capital companies in Portugal account for nearly a quarter of employment and almost half of the country's exports. Spain is the top investor, while U.S. firms offer the highest salaries, indicating a robust job market for applicants.
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Omiš Fire: Croatian Businesses Seek Government Tax Relief After Devastating Blaze
Following a fire in Omiš on August 19, 2026, which destroyed homes and businesses, the Glas poduzetnika (UGP) association has proposed that the Croatian government temporarily exempt affected entrepreneurs from taxes and tourist fees to aid recovery. A government decision is pending.
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Cyprus Consults on Stricter Minimum Tax Rules for Large Companies Until September 5, 2026
Cyprus has opened public consultations on amendments to its Pillar Two minimum taxation law. These changes aim to align national legislation with EU and international standards, potentially impacting tax strategies for large multinational and national business groups.
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Austrian Banks to Verify Residency for Non-EU Account Holders Under New EU Rules
Foreigners residing in Austria who hold bank accounts outside the EU (e.g., UK, USA) should expect requests from banks to verify their place of residence. This is part of new EU regulations aimed at enhancing transparency and combating money laundering.
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Sweden Implements Five Stricter Immigration Reforms Effective August 2026
Sweden has introduced at least five stricter immigration reforms, effective August 2026. These changes impact work visas, income requirements, family reunification, permanent residency, and citizenship. Applicants should review the updated criteria from the Swedish Migration Agency.
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Descendants of Italian Emigrants Get New Chance at Citizenship After Discriminatory 1912 Law Overturned
Italy's Supreme Court has ruled a 1912 law, which caused Italian women to lose citizenship upon marrying a foreigner before January 1, 1948, as discriminatory. This landmark decision allows descendants of these women to re-evaluate previously rejected citizenship applications.
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New EU Banking Directive: Non-EU Bank Accounts for German Residents May Face Changes
Foreign residents in Germany with bank accounts outside the EU (e.g., UK, US) are receiving notifications about a new EU directive. This directive enhances control over cross-border financial transactions, potentially leading to banks requesting more data or altering account terms.
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Germany Extends Border Controls on All Nine Land Borders Until March 2027, Impacting Schengen Travel
Germany has extended border controls on all nine land borders until March 2027. This decision impacts all travelers, including EU citizens and legal residents, requiring document checks and potentially increasing travel times. The move reflects ongoing migration policy debates and alters the practical experience of Sch
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Spain's Long-Term Rental Market: Scarcity and Rising Prices Impacting Residency Applicants
Expats and relocators in Spain are facing significant challenges finding long-term rental accommodation. A surge in demand combined with dwindling supply has driven up prices and intensified competition, complicating the process of obtaining or renewing Spanish residency permits.
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Portugal Targets 'Front Shops' Masking Illegal Accommodation Amid Crackdown
The Portuguese government is preparing a crackdown on businesses like restaurants and mini-markets that illegally rent out beds. Lisbon police have already identified 36 such establishments. City mayors are pushing for more local control, a move expected to impact anyone seeking affordable housing.
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Croatia Ranks Third Globally for Wealth Growth, Signaling Favorable Economic Climate for Applicants
Croatia's average net wealth per adult is projected to grow by 29% between 2020 and 2025, placing it third globally according to the UBS Global Wealth Report. This growth, surpassed only by South Korea (55%) and Russia (37%), indicates a stable economic environment.