The European Union has updated rules for immigrants who must reside continuously in an EU country for at least five years to acquire residency status.
This move applies to third-country nationals, which includes Nigeria, who are not EU members.
During a meeting of the Council’s Permanent Representatives committee, EU member states established their negotiating mandate for revising the EU long-term resident’s directive.
Notably, third-country nationals can accumulate residence periods of up to two years in other member states to meet the five-year requirement, with certain legal residence permits, such as EU Blue Cards, accepted for residency in another member state.
Applicants for long-term resident status are required to demonstrate stable resources and sickness insurance.
While this status is permanent, it can be revoked if the person has not had their primary residence in the EU for a specified period.
EU long-term residents gain intra-EU mobility rights, enjoying equal treatment with EU nationals in various areas such as employment, education, and tax benefits.
The proposed update aims to simplify conditions and enhance mobility rights.
