Uniform format for residence permits for third-country nationals

The European Parliament adopted by 614 votes to 11, with 67 abstentions, a legislative resolution on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 1030/2002 laying down a uniform format for residence permits for third-country nationals.

The European Parliament's position adopted at first reading in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure supports the Commission’s proposal to update the Annex to Council Regulation (EC) No 1030/2002 to provide for greater harmonisation.

Parliament clarified that third-country nationals who hold a valid residence permit drawn up in the uniform format issued by one of the Member States which apply the Schengen acquis in full have the right to move freely for up to 90 days within the Schengen area provided that they fulfil the entry conditions referred to in the Schengen Borders Code Regulation.

Moreover, in order to enable the competent authorities to identify third-country nationals who may benefit from those specific mobility rights, it is important that those residence permits clearly display the relevant entries, such as researcher, student or intra-corporate transferees (ICTs) in accordance with the relevant Union legislation.

Member States shall apply this Regulation at the latest 15 months after the adoption of the additional technical specifications referred to in Article 2 of Regulation (EC) No 1030/2002.