FAQs - Workers - residence rights
I have been working legally in another EU country for more than 5 years. Can the authorities in that country still ask me to prove I am employed there when I renew my registration certificate?
NO - After 5 years, you are automatically entitled to permanent residence in your new country. You should not renew your registration certificate but apply for a permanent residence document, which confirms that you have the right to stay there even if you do not work or need income support.
I travel to another EU country several times a year for work, staying for a maximum of 1 week each time. Do I have to undertake any formalities?
NO - If you stay for less than 3 months each time, the only formality you might have to undertake is to report your presence, if the country requires it.
I am self-employed and have recently moved to another EU country. I am not required to register there for the first 3 months. Can I start working before I register?
YES - You are allowed to work whether or not you have a registration certificate.
I am an Italian project officer, on a 7-month posting in Belgium, ending in 3 months' time. I am staying in my Belgian partner's flat (free of charge). Am I exempt from compulsory registration in Belgium, as I do not have a rental contract or pay any utilities there?
NO - You still have to register as soon as possible. In Belgium, this is compulsory for all EU citizens staying longer than 3 months. You cannot be expelled if you do not register, but you may have to pay a fine.
I am Austrian and have been offered a job in another EU country, but it is part-time and not well paid. Could the local authorities deny me the right to stay?
NO – As long as you can show that your work is a real and genuine economic activity, you have a right of residence in the country where you work. As a worker on a low income, you have the same right as national workers on low incomes to social assistance. You cannot be denied your right of residence because you do not have sufficient resources to support yourself and any family members dependent on you. The same rules apply if you are a self-employed worker with an activity that does not generate sufficient income.