On 22 May 2026 Directive (EU) 2024/1233 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 April 2024 on a single application procedure for a single permit for third-country nationals to reside and work in the territory of a Member State and on a common set of rights for third-country workers legally residing in a Member State entered into force. It repeals the previously applicable Directive 2011/98/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 December 2011 on a single application procedure for a single permit for third-country nationals to reside and work in the territory of a Member State and on a common set of rights for third-country workers legally residing in a Member State.
The new Directive introduces important changes to the single residence and work permit. For example, the new 2024 Directive provides the holder of a single residence and work permit with the opportunity to change their employer, which was not included in the repealed 2011 Directive, and gives more flexibility to the third-country nationals. Another significant change is that if a third-country national holder of a single residence and work permit becomes unemployed and their employment relationship with the employer for whom the permit was issued is terminated, this no longer automatically constitutes grounds for revoking the Single Permit, and the third-country national is given the opportunity to remain in the Member State for a certain period and start working for a new employer. Other innovations include shorter deadlines for deciding on applications for the issuance of a single residence and work permi, as well as expanded guarantees and mechanisms for protection against labor exploitation of employees.
The new directive must be transposed into the national legislation of the Member States, including Bulgaria, by 21 May 2026. At present, Bulgaria has not yet fulfilled this obligation and the directive has not been transposed. Our team remains available for consultations and assistance on the procedure for issuing a single residence and work permit and the related specifics.
Author: Attorney Vyara Georgieva
