The European Parliament has approved legislation that is intended to make it easier for workers from outside the European Union to receive working and residency permits in the member states.

The legislation, which has already been endorsed by national governments, will also grant foreign workers rights that are very similar to those enjoyed by EU citizens in terms of working conditions, pensions, social security and access to public services.

The legislation approved by the Parliament in plenary today (13 December) was first proposed by the European Commission in 2007, and creates a single application procedure for residency and work permits for migrant workers, and a single set of rights. Member states now have two years to transpose the single permit directive into national law.

The rules do not limit member states’ ability to decide who can enter their territory, and national governments will still be able to restrict the rights of certain foreign workers.

Cecilia Malmström, the European commissioner for home affairs, said: “I am very pleased that this directive has finally been adopted, as it will certainly simplify the life of migrants applying to reside and work in the EU. The directive will ensure a one-stop-shop system, thereby accelerating administrative procedures both for the future employer and the migrant.”

“This is an important step in facilitating legal migration, as well as in ensuring rights for migrants who are legally working and contributing to the cultural richness of our societies and the strength of our economy,” Malmström said.