As a general rule, in order to prevent abuses, local border traffic
permits should be issued only to those who have been lawfully resident
in a border area for at least one year. Bilateral Agreements concluded
between Member States and neighbouring third countries may provide for
a longer period of residence. In exceptional and duly justified cases,
such as those relating to minors, changes in marital status or
inheritance of land, those bilateral Agreements may also provide for a
shorter period of residence