From May 2026 Europe Adopts a Single Permit for Non EU Workers Here’s a detailed overview of the forthcoming rule in the European Union on a single permit / single card for third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) that will come into force in May 2026. What is it The rule is embodied in Directive (EU) 2024/1233 (“the recast Single Permit Directive”). In essence it creates: a single permit which combines the right to reside and the right to work in a Member State for a third-country national. a single application procedure , meaning one application is submitted (by the worker or employer) instead of separate residence and work permit procedures. a common set of rights for third-country workers holding the permit (for example rights around access to territory, possibility to change employer, unemployment periods under certain conditions) aligned across Member States. Why this reform Key motivations include: To make the EU more attractive to workers fro...