VISA & Travel conditions
in May 2016, European Union adopted a new Directive for the entry and residence of non-EU researchers. The European Union Member States had the obligation to implement the new rules in their national legislations.
The new directive sets clearer, more consistent and transparent rules such as:
- Procedural guarantees: The 90-day time limit for Member States’ authorities to decide on an application will make the process more straightforward and transparent.
- Stay after the research is completed: Researchers will be allowed to remain for up to 9 months in their Member State of residence after finalisation of their research to identify job opportunities or set up a business. This will not amount to an automatic right to work: the researcher who finds a job will have to apply for a work and residence permit.
- Simpler and more flexible mobility rules: will increase the possibility for researchers to move within the EU for their projects. Family members of researchers will also be granted mobility rights.
How can one obtain a long-stay visa/residence permit?
In order to obtain a long-stay visa or a residence permit (for a period of more than three months) from the relevant national authorities, it is necessary to have the following requirements:
- have a valid travel document (e. g. passport; Member States may require the period of validity of the travel document to cover at least the duration of the planned stay),
- be in possession of a signed hosting agreement
- prove that they will have sufficient resources and sickness insurance during their stay,
- not pose a threat to public policy, security or health
- some Member States require a statement of “financial responsibility”, under which they will pay any costs incurred if the researcher stays beyond the time their residence permit is valid.
How can I obtain a short-term stay permit?
If you want to stay less than 90 days in any 180 day period, the procedure is different and it depends on the Member State concerned and your nationality.
Individual European countries do not have identical rules of procedure; they need to be verified for each country. Have you decided your work destination? It is possible to find all information on the EURAXESS National Portals.
Are You Ready to Move Abroad?
- Accommodation: Find a place to stay. It might prove quite challenging to find a suitable accommodation that fits your ideas for a future life but it is one of the first things you will do when relocating to another country.
- Banking: It is important to become familiar with the banking system. Before moving to another country, check yor bank account and/or if you need to open a new account in hosting country.
- Day care, schooling and family related issues: If you are bringing your children with you abroad, you should look into childcare or schooling, at the earliest opportunity!
- Access to the culture of the host country/language courses: Learning the language of your host country might prove quite useful. Check for language courses and training support by your university/company/institution.
- Health insurance: During your stay you must make sure you have an adequate health insurance.
- Medical care: Accommodation, banking, visa or work permits are obvious things to consider when preparing to move, but what about planning for your medical care ?
