The European Parliament has adopted proposals for a "single permit" law that will provide foreign workers with the same rights as EU nationals.

Under the directive, red tape and bureaucracy would be reduced in order to improve labor migration to the region, although a number of countries have chosen not to participate in the plans.

It is intended to simplify procedures for individuals under a single permit, while nations would retain the power to admit workers from outside the EU and set limits on the numbers of migrants they allow into the country.

Amended by MEPs, the directive passed by 311 votes to 216 in the Parliament and the new rules will apply to many existing legal non-EU residents in the region, as well as those seeking jobs.

Comparable rights for overseas employees will include health and safety at work, pay, leave, working time and social security access.

Each of the EU's 27 member states has its own immigration programs for foreign workers, with some potentially ending in citizenship.

Posted by Alex Donnell