Working remotely from another EU country: rights, taxes, and work-life balance

You're employed by a company in one EU country but living in another. Thanks to free movement, that's perfectly legal — if you follow a few rules.

Cross-border remote work has become a daily reality for thousands of Europeans. Understanding your rights lets you enjoy this flexibility fully. For other career strategies abroad, check our guide on finding a job abroad.

Two authorities to satisfy: your employer's country and your host country both want clarity on taxes and social security.

183-day rule: after six months in one country, you usually become tax-resident there.

Social coverage: you stay in your home scheme if over 25 % of work ties remain there; otherwise, the host system applies.

Cross-border telework agreement: since 2023, EU rules allow up to 50 % remote work abroad without switching social schemes.

Health insurance: the European Health Insurance Card covers emergencies, not routine care once local affiliation kicks in.

1. Notify your employer: disclose your address; many firms issue a European remote-work addendum.

2. Clarify tax residence: check double-tax treaties (France–Spain, Germany–Austria, etc.). Review our guide on opening a bank account to manage your finances.

3. Request the A1 form: proves your original social coverage.

4. Check housing taxes if you reside year-round. See our tips on renting abroad.

5. Update health insurance (add travel or international top-up).

6. Stabilize your daily rhythm: handle time zones, Wi-Fi, workspace ergonomics.

Lucie, a French designer, works for a Lyon company but lives in Lisbon.

• She informed HR and got a \"European remote\" addendum.

• Filed form A1 with URSSAF to stay in France's system.

• Notified Portuguese authorities she spends under 183 days/year.

• Keeps EHIC + private top-up.

Result: no double contributions, full cover, flexible life balance.

Be transparent — hiding residence can cause audit or insurance issues.

Keep evidence (tickets, bills, A1).

Check taxation on company equipment abroad.

Build mental boundaries between work and leisure. Discover our integration tips for healthy expat life.

Cross-border remote work works smoothly when declared: employer informed, A1 form filed, tax residency clear. The rest is organization and self-discipline — your passport to sustainable European flexibility.