Brussels, 01/04/2004 (Agence Europe) - The Justice and Home Affairs Council reached a political agreement on Tuesday on admission conditions for students from third countries into the European Union. The draft directive explains that documents and proof have to be provided regarding a residency permit or the right to work or complete studies in another Member State. Each Member State is free to decide how to apply (or not) this directive on students, non-paid courses and volunteers.
The text stipulates that as well as a valid travel permit and the attestation of being accepted at a higher education establishment, students have to present proof that they are covered by a health insurance and that they can support themselves. The country can ask for evidence of sufficient knowledge of the language in which the course is taught. Admission to a country could be refused if the country considers that student a danger to security or public health. The status of a student in the EU is for at least a year and can be renewable or it can correspond to the length of the course if it is less than a year. Students admitted into the EU can also in certain condition continue studies in another EU Member State. They will have the right to carry out a paid activity but Member States can limit this right depending on the situation in the labour market and determine the maximum number of hours worked (at least ten a week).
This directive does not affect students from third countries who are married to EU nationals nor those who have long term residency. Two other European texts grant the right to study in the EU.
The political agreement is expected to be confirmed after the lifting of parliamentary reservations and an agreement on "considerations" concerning deportations. Afterwards, Member States will have two years to apply the directive.