Working abroad

FAQs

Q. Where do I find information about working abroad?

A. Eurofacts and Exodus are available through your local Careers or Connexions Service.

Q. Do I have the right to work abroad?

A. EU/EEA nationals have the right to work in other EU/EEA countries. For countries outside the EU/EEA you must contact the relevant Embassy in your home country to apply for entry visas and work permits. Working outside the EU/EEA can be difficult. Many countries impose strong restrictions on people entering the country to work. There are often stringent visa requirements. It is strongly recommended that you check out entry and visa requirements with the embassy of the country you are interested in before you leave your home country.

Q. Do I pay tax?

A. Reciprocal agreements exist with some countries for the purpose of paying tax. Contact the HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) for information on the countries with reciprocal agreements.

Q. Do I need medical insurance?

A. Yes

Q. How do I know if my qualifications are recognised in another EU Member State?

A. There are a number of organisations to help with the recognition of qualifications

Academic Qualifications

For the recognition of your academic qualifications you should contact NARIC (the National Academic Recognition Information Centre) in the member state you wish to work in.

Professional Qualifications

To enable nationals to work in member states without having to re-qualify for professional or occupational qualifications, the General System for Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications was introduced. The system is operated by means of 2 European Directives, 89/48/EEC and 92/51/EEC. The 2 directives cover between them all regulated professions and occupations. To be eligible for assessment under Directive 89/48/EEC you must have successfully completed a post secondary course of at least 3 years duration, at a university or establishment of higher education. You must also have successfully completed any professional training required to enable you to practise the profession concerned. Directive 92/51/EEC covers those professions regulated below degree level.

Vocational Qualifications

The National Reference Point (NRP) network is a network of centres across Europe that can help and advise you about the recognition of your qualifications. The UK National Reference Point for Vocational Qualifications is operated by NARIC and acts as a national agency in a European network of reference points for vocational qualifications in the EEA member states. The UK National Reference Point acts as a signpost to the other Reference Points across Europe for those wanting information about the validity of their UK qualifications in Europe. Further information is available from the UK National Reference Point.

Certificates of Experience 

British craftspeople wishing to exercise their trade in other member states can apply to have their experience certificated under the UK Certificate of Experience scheme. British nationals who require a Certificate of Experience should contact the Department for Education and Skills for a guidance pack and application form:

Certificate of Experience Office
Department for Education and Skills
QfW2
E3B
Moorfoot
SHEFFIELD
S1 4PQ

Page last updated: 21/04/2008