Brussels, (Unib Rashid) – The European Union has introduced new rules aimed at addressing labour shortages across member states by attracting skilled foreign workers through legal migration channels. Under the newly implemented regulations, eligible non-EU workers already residing in Europe will be able to obtain a single permit granting both residence and work rights without having to return to their home countries.

According to the European Commission, Europe’s ageing population has created significant labour shortages in several sectors, prompting efforts to attract young and skilled professionals from around the world. As part of this strategy, two major initiatives have been launched at the EU level.

The first is the implementation of the revised Single Permit Directive, which allows qualified foreign workers to secure both employment and residency rights through a single application process. The directive also requires EU member states to decide on permit applications within 90 days.

In addition, the EU has established the EU Talent Pool, a new platform designed to help address workforce shortages through legal migration rather than irregular immigration. The platform, launched this month and expected to become fully operational by the end of 2027, will enable skilled professionals outside the EU to create profiles highlighting their qualifications, skills, work experience, and language abilities.

Employers and companies across the European Union will be able to advertise vacancies and directly connect with suitable candidates through the platform.

The European Commission stated that the new rules also include measures to protect non-EU workers from exploitation, inform them of their rights upon receiving a permit, allow them to change employers under certain conditions, and permit them to remain in the host country for a specified period even if they become unemployed during the validity of their permit.

However, the new regulations will not apply to Denmark and Ireland.

According to the European Labour Authority, sectors currently facing significant labour shortages across the EU include healthcare and social services, information and communication technologies (ICT), science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professions supporting green technologies, as well as electricians, welders, plumbers, construction workers, heavy truck and lorry drivers, mobile plant operators, and railway staff.