we arent EU.. tho not sure if being a property owner in Gva makes any difference at all ? (ie we had lived in Gva for 7 yrs, set up home, now taken a 2 yr assignment, and thereafter will be returning to Gva. Our daughter tho will return prior to us for her continued studies tho). I guess in view of the circumstances the permits were ''frozen'' (and confirmed in writing) for 4 yrs.