EU - Residence permits to be scrapped for EU nationals

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EU directive was yesterday adopted by the European Parliament that will make living in other EU countries easier for nationals of EU member states.

new law comes into effect in 2006, and stipulates that ex-patriates from EU countries will no longer have to apply for a residence permit to live and work in any other EU country. Although EU nationals do not require work permits to work in another member state, they do however need a residence permit if they stay for more than six months.

the EU is expanding to include 25 states, in 2006 all EU nationals will be able to save the time and expense involved in applying for a residence permit. Ex-pats will still, however, need to register with the local authorities and show that they have independent means of support whilst residing in that particular EU country.

This new regulation does not apply to nationals who are not from EU member states, for example, US and Indian citizens.

The rules will not apply to non-EU expats, for example US citizens. Non-EU nationals will still be required to apply for residence permits.