Brussels, 14/12/2004 (Agence Europe) - On Monday, the Council adopted a directive laying down conditions for third-country students to be admitted into the European Union, on which the foreign ministers had reached political agreement on 30 March.
The status of student admitted into the EU allows the holder to stay for at least a year renewably, or for a period corresponding to the duration of the course, if this is less than one year. The student allowed into the EU may also study in a different Member State to the one which issued the residence permit, subject to certain conditions. Students will be allowed to do paid work, but Member States may limit this right depending on the employment market situation, and will lay down the maximum number of hours permitted (at least 10 hours per week). The text stipulates that as will as a valid travel document and proof of acceptance into a higher education establishment, the student must provide proof of health insurance cover, and of having the financial means to cover their needs. The State may call upon students to prove that they possess sufficient knowledge of the language in which classes are to be given. Admission into the country may be refused if the State considers there is a possible danger to security or public health. Each Member State is free to decide whether or not the directive can also be applied to school children, unpaid placement students or volunteers.
This directive does not apply to third-country students which are family members of an EU national, or those with long-term residency statues. There are two other European texts allowing them the right to study in the EU.
The Member States will have two years to apply the directive.