European Citizenship & Residency News
English briefings for the European citizenship and residency tracks hosted on Prep2Go.
Published
ETIAS Delayed Until Mid-2025: Beware of Scam Websites Selling Fake Authorizations
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has been postponed until mid-2025. Despite this delay, fraudulent websites are already attempting to sell fake ETIAS authorizations to travelers, particularly British citizens. Learn how to identify and avoid these scams.
Published
ETIAS Launch Delayed, Scammers Active: British Travelers Warned to Avoid Fake Websites
The launch of ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) has been postponed, but fake websites are already charging for the non-existent service. British travelers and other non-EU citizens are warned to avoid these scams. Official information will only come from EU sources.
Published
Netherlands Sees First Decline in Self-Employed in 20 Years as Freelancers Shift to Permanent Jobs
The number of self-employed individuals in the Netherlands has decreased by 10% (131,000 people) since late 2024, marking the first decline in two decades. The Central Bank of the Netherlands (DNB) reports that former freelancers are quickly securing permanent positions, indicating a market reorientation.
Published
Portugal Parliament Approves Tighter SNS Access for Non-Residents: Insurance or Payment Required
Portuguese lawmakers have given preliminary approval to a bill requiring non-resident foreigners to pay for healthcare services or show proof of insurance to access the National Health Service (SNS). The legislation, backed by PSD/CDS-PP and Chega, still needs committee review but signals a clear shift in policy.
Published
Monthly update on September 2026: Germany immigration — Chancen-Aufenthaltsrecht ends, fast-track PR for spouses, EU diploma reform, and
September 2026 brought a hard deadline for holders of Germany's Chancen-Aufenthaltsrecht permit, which can no longer be extended and requires immediate replacement with a work, study, or family visa. Alongside this, a fast-track three-year permanent residency route opened for
Published
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.
Published
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.
Published
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.
Published
Immigrants in Norway Face Higher Risk of High-Interest Debt
A report by The Local indicates that immigrants in Norway are disproportionately affected by high-interest loans. Factors include limited access to traditional banking, the high cost of living, and a gap in financial literacy, leading to potential debt traps.
Published
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.
Published
Sweden Launches Support Plan for Citizenship Applicants Affected by Retroactive Law Changes
Sweden's Migration Agency (Migrationsverket) has introduced a support plan for citizenship applicants whose cases are now being reviewed under new, stricter retroactive rules. The plan offers individual assessment and assistance to meet requirements or appeal decisions.
Published
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.
Published
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.
Published
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.
Published
Portugal: US Interest in Residency and Relocation Stays Strong After Citizenship Law Changes
Recent events in the US focusing on Portuguese residency, real estate, and relocation attracted 455 Americans. This strong turnout indicates sustained interest in moving to Portugal, even after recent amendments to the country's citizenship legislation.
Published
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.
Published
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
Published
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.