50 years of free movement and 60 years of Social Security Coordination

The freedom of movement of workers is a founding principle and central pillar of the European Union. Since it was established in 1968, it has allowed EU citizens to freely reside, work and take part in the economic and social life of any Member State.

©European Commission

 

If European citizens work in another country, they are entitled to the same working and living conditions as the nationals of that country. It therefore guarantees equal treatment and aims at banning discrimination on the grounds of nationality.

60 years ago, social security coordination in the European Union started and the social security benefits of EU citizens were protected when moving within Europe.

Thanks to the social security coordination, EU citizens can retain their social security benefits when working abroad, including pensions, healthcare benefits, unemployment benefits and family benefits.

Currently 17 million Europeans are living or working abroad.

Find out how your rights are protected here: http://ec.europa.eu/social-security-coordination

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