Social benefits within the EU

Freedom of movement for workers and the freedom of settlement as fundamental freedoms of the internal market allow citizens of the Union to reside and settle freely in any EU Member state. This should ensure that all Union citizens can move freely within the Union and within their own country.

The concrete terms of the freedom of movement can be found in implementing provisions, in particular by the so-called Free Movement Directive (Directive 2004/38/EC). Accordingly, the right of residence in a Member State of the EU other than the country of origin is in principle subject to two conditions:

• sufficient financial resources to cover costs of living, and
• a valid health insurance. 

This is intended to prevent “benefit tourism”, i.e. residence in an EU Member State for the sole purpose of receiving social benefits. 

Detailed information on the coordination of social security systems and the eligibility requirements can be found on the European Commission website.