Understanding A1 certificates
A1 certificates are essential for employees who travel or commute across borders for work. They provide proof of which country’s social security system covers the employee during their time abroad.
Difference between Article 12 and Article 13 A1 certificates
Article 12 A1 (Standard A1): This is intended for individuals working for a limited period of time outside their employment country. Each trip requires a separate A1 certificate, ensuring compliance for short-term assignments or business trips.
Article 13 A1 (Multistate employment for commuters): This applies to employees who regularly work in multiple countries and commuters who live in one country and work in another.
A1 certificates for every stay
It is crucial to note that A1 certificates are required for every stay outside the employee's primary employment country. The type of A1 certificate issued will vary based on the nature and duration of the travel.
Policy on so called Multistate long-term A1 certificates (according to Art 13)
Currently, WorkFlex does not apply for multistate A1 certificates. For employees regularly working across multiple member states, long-term A1s can be requested by the employer under Article 13 for "gewöhnliche Mehrfacherwerbstätigkeit" (ordinary multiple employment).
Guidance on using Article 13 A1 certificates
Clients with compliant Article 13 A1 certificates can continue utilizing them. Please contact WorkFlex in case you have an existing A1. It is vital to ensure that these certificates meet all legal requirements to prevent any compliance issues.
For any trips outside their usual employment countries, they must still request individual A1 certificates.