Definition
A labour market test (also called a Resident Labour Market Test or priority test) is a procedural requirement that obliges an employer to first advertise a vacancy to resident workers — typically EU and EEA nationals — for a defined period before being permitted to recruit a non-EU national. The test is intended to protect the domestic labour market. Several EU member states apply labour market tests for general work permits but waive them for highly qualified workers applying under the EU Blue Card, shortage occupation lists, or specific fast-track routes.
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Related terms
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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Single Permit
GVVA (Gecombineerde Vergunning voor Verblijf en Arbeid)
A combined work and residence permit issued by EU member states that replaces separate work and residence authorisations with one document.
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Sponsorship
A formal arrangement where a licensed employer or organisation takes legal responsibility for a non-EU worker's immigration application and compliance obligations.
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Third-Country National
TCN
A person who is not a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland — the primary applicant group for European work and residence permits.
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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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