How do Europeans benefit from moving to a European country?
There are many benefits to moving to a European country as a European national. The continent is currently grappling with labor shortages, particularly in critical industries such as construction, healthcare, and transportation. This situation is an open door for EU citizens who can leverage their status to explore job prospects in fellow EU nations without the hassle of visas or work permits. The seamless mobility across European borders offers an enticing opportunity for those seeking to broaden their professional horizons.
Geographical proximity
Border closures during the initial phase of the Covid pandemic had a profound impact on families, leading to painful separations. Despite governments' efforts to arrange emergency repatriation, many expatriates were stranded in their host countries. This distressing situation has prompted individuals to reconsider their life plans. However, European citizens who opt to reside in another European country have the advantage of geographical proximity to their loved ones. This choice also makes it easier for them to return to their home country while staying connected to their expat country. Such a decision provides a practical and cost-effective solution, which holds significant value in the current crisis.
The benefits of European citizenship
Being a citizen of an EU member country offers a wide range of benefits. But it is important to differentiate between the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), which includes the 27 EU members along with Liechtenstein, Iceland, and Norway, and the Schengen area, which encompasses most EU countries along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Under Article 45 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, EU citizens enjoy significant rights. For instance, they have the freedom to work in any EU country without requiring a work permit, explore employment opportunities in other EU countries, and continue residing in the EU even at the end of their employment period. They are also entitled to the same working conditions, social benefits, and tax regulations as citizens of the host EU country. This freedom of movement extends to the EEA and the Schengen area. However, with the EU facing significant skills shortages, some sectors, such as health, construction, industry, sustainable development, and energy, are experiencing notable impacts.
Streamlined administrative procedures
EU citizens benefit from simplified administrative procedures when considering a move to another EU country. They are exempt from the need for a visa or work permit -- they only need a valid passport or ID card. This streamlined process makes the transition much more straightforward. After residing in the country for three months, EU citizens only need to register with the local authorities to obtain a registration certificate, which grants them the right to reside there and provides access to certain benefits. In fact, EU citizenship makes it easier to move to any European country.
These benefits extend to everyone with European nationality, including workers, job seekers, students, and retirees, as well as their family members. Still, residency conditions will depend on their nationality and situation. Besides, EU citizens can freely travel within the EU or EEA for up to three months without requiring a visa or additional formalities. Once again, a valid passport or identity card is sufficient to enjoy this freedom of movement.
Greater access to the European labor market
Accessing job opportunities in EU countries has become more convenient for individuals thanks to various measures implemented. According to estimates from the European Commission, approximately 17 million EU citizens currently live or work abroad. Workers can take advantage of simplified procedures allowing them to move freely between European countries for employment. This freedom also extends to jobseekers, although specific conditions may apply based on their circumstances, such as experiencing job loss in the host country or actively searching for employment within the EU. In cases where a job seeker hasn't been able to secure a job within a certain timeframe (typically 6 months), the host country's authorities may review their right of residence. However, considerable efforts are made to support job seekers and facilitate their integration into the host country's labor market.
Peace of mind when retiring in a European country
European citizenship offers numerous advantages for retirement planning. While each country has its own pension system, European citizens can take full advantage of the Europe Agreements. These agreements allow them to accumulate pension rights based on their work experience in different EU countries. It also provides greater flexibility when it comes to planning for retirement, enabling individuals to chart their course more efficiently. This way, EU citizens can serenely retire in another European country while enjoying their privileges.
Avoiding double taxation
Several agreements have been implemented within the European Union to safeguard expats from the challenge of double taxation. In general, if an EU citizen resides in another country for over 6 months in a year, they are deemed a tax resident of that country. Nevertheless, if they stay for less than 6 months, they maintain their tax residency in their home country, meaning they will pay taxes in only one country.
What are the challenges of moving to a European country for Europeans?
In practice, there are very few drawbacks for European citizens relocating to another European country. However, certain entry restrictions have been in place within the European Union. For instance, Croatia, the 28th member state of the EU since July 1, 2013, only joined the Eurozone and the Schengen area on January 1, 2023.
Limited cultural shift
Does moving to a neighboring country really make you an expat? It depends on the perspective. Staying within Europe might provide a different magnitude of cultural transition than you would expect in another country. In the common perception, moving abroad is often linked with new adventures on the other side of the world and immersing in different cultures. As a result, there is a widespread misconception that European individuals moving within Europe would encounter a less significant cultural shock and fewer changes relating to expat life.
Brexit consequences on immigration within Europe
The Brexit aftermath continues to reverberate among European expatriates residing within Europe. The United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union has led to the sudden departure of many Europeans and brought about a lot of hassles for potential expats. Freedom of movement is no longer guaranteed, as individuals now need a visa or work permit for stays longer than 6 months. Additionally, the UK has introduced a selective immigration policy based on a points system, treating Europeans similarly to non-EU nationals.
Persistent employment challenges for the disabled
Regarding employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, European countries recognize the ongoing efforts being made, although there are noticeable differences among states, resulting in significant disparities. As of 2022, there were approximately 87 million people with disabilities residing in an EU member state, yet only 50.8% of them are in stable employment, compared to the 75% employment rate among individuals without disabilities. Despite government initiatives, many individuals with disabilities face challenges when it comes to training and finding work. The European Union supports public programs to promote access to the labor market for individuals with disabilities. It is worth noting that in Spain, there has been a commendable 20% increase in the number of individuals with disabilities entering the job market within a span of six years.
Useful links:
European Employment Services Network (EURES)
Europass: learning and working in Europe
