Article by Hugo Guedes - Lawyer at International Atlantic Services

The European Union has adopted a new directive aimed at streamlining the process for third-country nationals to live and work within Member States. Directive (EU) 2024/1233 introduces a “single permit” system, combining residence and work authorization into one unified procedure while reinforcing a common set of rights for legally employed foreign workers.

A focus on simplification and fairness

At its core, the Directive is designed to reduce administrative complexity and improve legal certainty. Instead of requiring separate applications for residence and employment, third-country nationals will benefit from a single application process. At the same time, the Directive strengthens equal treatment in the labour market, ensuring that legally residing foreign workers enjoy comparable rights to nationals in key areas.

Importantly, the reform is not intended to expand mobility across the EU. Rather than creating new pathways for movement between Member States, it focuses on improving procedures and conditions within the country that issues the permit.

Who is covered?

The Directive applies to non-EU nationals who apply to reside in a Member State for employment purposes, as well as those already legally residing and authorized to work. It operates within the framework of labour migration policy, without replacing national residence systems or altering existing immigration structures.

A more uniform application process

One of the most significant changes lies in the harmonization of procedures across Member States. Applications may be submitted either by the worker or the employer, depending on national rules, and can be filed from abroad or from within the country.

The Directive also requires Member States to designate a single competent authority responsible for handling applications, including issuance, renewal, or modification of permits. Decisions must generally be made within 90 days, with a possible extension of up to 30 days in complex cases.

Additional safeguards include the obligation to provide written reasons for refusals, ensure access to information on rights and obligations, and avoid disproportionate processing fees.

Stronger rights for permit holders

Holders of the single permit benefit from a set of harmonized minimum rights within the issuing Member State. These include the right to reside and work, as well as to remain in the country during renewal procedures or temporary periods of unemployment.

In cases of job loss, the Directive guarantees a minimum period of stay: at least three months for permit holders with less than two years of residence, and at least six months for those with longer residence, subject in some cases to proof of sufficient resources.

Equal treatment in working and social conditions

The Directive strengthens the principle of equal treatment between foreign workers and national citizens. This includes equality in working conditions such as pay, working hours, leave, and health and safety standards, as well as access to education, vocational training, and recognition of qualifications.

It also covers certain social security benefits, tax advantages, and access to goods and services, including housing and public employment support. Member States may still introduce specific limitations, but these must remain within the Directive’s framework.

Limited impact on EU-wide mobility

Despite its practical importance, the Directive does not introduce free movement rights for third-country nationals within the European Union. Residence and work authorizations remain tied to the issuing Member State, preserving the fundamental principle of territoriality in EU immigration law.

A technical but meaningful reform

Overall, Directive (EU) 2024/1233 represents a significant step toward administrative efficiency and fairer treatment of foreign workers, without altering the broader structure of EU migration policy. Its main impact will be felt in more streamlined procedures and improved legal protections, rather than expanded mobility across the Union.