Employers have more time to comment on EU Blue Card reforms

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The European Commission has extended the deadline for employers and other immigration stakeholders to comment on potential changes to the EU Blue Card scheme.

What does the change mean? The commission will now accept comments and recommendations on reforms to the Blue Card scheme until Sept. 30.

• Implementation time frame: Now until Sept. 30.
• Visas/permits affected: EU Blue Card.
• Who is affected: Companies hiring non-EEA high-skilled employees under the Blue Card scheme.
• Business impact: Employers and others have the opportunity to weigh in before the commission recommends changes to the scheme.
• Next steps: Those interested in commenting may contact a BAL professional or submit comments directly to the commission using the online form.

Background: In May, the European Commission issued a migration agenda containing business migration proposals that include boosting the popularity of Blue Cards and giving Blue Card holders greater cross-border EU access. The commission is seeking opinions from employers of all sizes, organizations and non-EU workers living outside or within the EU.

The initial deadline for public comments was Aug. 21.

BAL Analysis: The commission’s initial agenda has indicated a possible expansion of the EU Blue Card, but its recommendations on the future of the scheme may be influenced by public comments from business and other interests.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in the United Kingdom. For additional information, please contact uk@bal.com.

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