Definition
A third-country national (TCN) is any person who is not a citizen of a European Union member state, a European Economic Area country (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein), or Switzerland. TCNs are subject to immigration controls and must obtain the appropriate visa, residence permit, or work authorisation to legally enter, reside in, or work in EU countries. EU immigration directives and regulations, including those covering the EU Blue Card, single permit, seasonal workers, and long-term residents, are specifically designed to govern the conditions of entry and residence for TCNs.
Official name
TCN
Official sources
Related terms
EEA
European Economic Area
The European Economic Area comprises the 27 EU member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, whose nationals enjoy free movement rights across all EEA countries.
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EU Blue Card
Blaue Karte EU
An EU-wide work and residence permit for highly qualified non-EU workers. Requires a job offer meeting a minimum salary threshold and recognised qualifications.
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Residence Permit
An official document or authorisation that entitles a non-citizen to legally reside in a country for a specified period, often but not always including the right to work.
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Schengen Area
A zone of 29 European countries that have abolished passport and border controls at their mutual borders, allowing free movement of people.
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Work Permit
An official authorisation granting a non-citizen the legal right to be employed or self-employed in a country, usually issued alongside or embedded in a residence permit.
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