EU Proposes Faster Qualification Recognition for Non-EU Citizens

Non-EU citizens in Denmark and Sweden could soon get qualifications recognised much faster. The European Commission proposed new rules this week to simplify professional recognition.

Currently, EU rules on recognition apply only to EU citizens. Non-EU residents face different rules in each country. The Commission says procedures currently average 1,500 euros and take over 14 months. About 70 percent of non-EU residents call the wait a major problem.

The new directive will standardise document requirements across the bloc. It will set clear deadlines to cut wait times. It will also guarantee rights of appeal. However, recognition decisions will remain non-transferable between EU countries.

The proposal creates automatic recognition for seven specific professions. These include doctors, general care nurses, dentists, midwives, vets, pharmacists, and architects. Qualifications must come from accredited institutions that meet EU standards.

The measure targets skilled labour shortages and prevents skills waste. It applies to non-EU citizens living in or moving to the EU. (Source: The Local)