Definition
A hosting agreement is a legally binding contract concluded between a recognised research organisation (such as a university, national laboratory, or R&D company) and a third-country national researcher. It specifies the research project, its duration, financial arrangements (stipend or salary), and the researcher's obligations. Under EU Directive 2016/801/EU, the hosting agreement is the primary document required when applying for a researcher residence permit, replacing the need for a standard employment contract in most member states.
Official sources
Related terms
Researcher Permit
A residence permit for non-EU academic or scientific researchers to carry out research projects in a host EU member state under a hosting agreement.
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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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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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