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

Published October 20, 2025

More and more expats keep their original job while living elsewhere in Europe. But behind the freedom of cross-border remote work lie practical questions: taxes, social security, health coverage, and daily rhythm. Here's how to stay compliant and balanced.

The situation

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.

What to expect

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.

Key steps

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. If you are setting up a home office, be aware of new 2026 energy efficiency rules in Europe that may affect homeowners.

Real example

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.

Friendly expat tips

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.

Key takeaway

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.

Cross-border remote work: tools and further reading

Remote work across EU borders triggers complex social security, tax, and residency questions — especially for frontaliers between France and Switzerland. The AdminLanding Cross-Border Pack (€29) bundles a personalised tax simulator, [LAMal](/en/blog/2026-03-28-lamal-vs-cmu-health-insurance-cross-border-worker)/[CMU](/en/blog/2026-03-28-lamal-vs-cmu-health-insurance-cross-border-worker) comparison, and step-by-step affiliation guidance for cross-border workers.

Related in-depth guides:

• Permit G Switzerland: complete guide

• LAMal vs CMU: health insurance choice

• Swiss second pillar (LPP) retirement guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay in my home country's social security system?

Yes, as long as less than 50 % of your work is done from the host country. Beyond that, local affiliation applies. The A1 form is your proof.

Will I pay tax in both countries?

No. Bilateral tax treaties prevent double taxation. Check the 183-day rule and your primary tax residence.

Stay updated

For more practical insights on this topic, explore our related articles:

Conclusion: Remote work across borders is one of modern life's great freedoms. By staying compliant on tax and social rules, you can truly enjoy Europe's flexibility — minus the paperwork stress.

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About the author:

Julien Maurice is the founder of AdminLanding and writes the editorial guides on ExpatAdminHub covering European expat life, France-Switzerland cross-border work, and French administrative procedures. Contact: [email protected]

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

Published October 20, 2025

The situation

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.

What to expect

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.

Key steps

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).

Real example

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.

Friendly expat tips

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.

Key takeaway

Cross-border remote work: tools and further reading

Related in-depth guides:

• Permit G Switzerland: complete guide

• LAMal vs CMU: health insurance choice

• Swiss second pillar (LPP) retirement guide

Frequently Asked Questions