03/07/2026
📋 IMPORTANT: Permanent Residence Cards Issued 2016–2021 Expiring August 2026
If you hold a permanent residence card issued between 3 August 2016 and 2 August 2021, here's what you need to know.
📌 WHAT'S HAPPENING:
Under new EU Regulation 2025/1208 on document security standards, these cards will cease to be valid as of 3 August 2026 — regardless of the expiry date printed on the card.
✅ WHY:
This is purely a document security update aligning older-format cards with new EU-wide technical standards — not a change in immigration policy or individual eligibility.
👥 WHO'S AFFECTED:
👉Family members of EEA citizens (non-EU nationals)
👉Third-country family members of Hungarian citizens
..holding a card issued within this specific window.
😊 GOOD NEWS:
Most people who originally received these cards have already transitioned to updated residence documentation over the years. This mainly affects those who are still holding the original card from that period.
📝 WHAT TO DO IF AFFECTED:
You'll need to apply for a new residence title before August 2026. Depending on your situation, this typically means:
✓ New Permanent Residence Card
✓ Residence Card (EEA family members)
✓ National Residence Card
✓ EU Residence Card
📬 OFFICIAL NOTICE:
NDGAP will send affected individuals a detailed notice by post. You can also check with your regional NDGAP Client Service Office directly.
Think this applies to you? We're here to help determine the right path forward.
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