Moving to the EU

Relocating to the European Union (EU) is an exciting and transformative decision, whether for work, study, or a lifestyle change. As you prepare to make the leap, it’s essential to understand the immigration process, housing, healthcare, and even how to bring your pets along. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps and provide you with tips to ensure a smooth transition.

What is the European Union?

The European Union is a political and economic union consisting of 27 member countries. These countries are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. Together, these nations work towards common goals in areas such as trade, environmental standards, and human rights, while maintaining their own unique cultural identities.

Immigration and Residency Requirements

The EU is home to a diverse range of cultures and languages, but immigration rules are largely unified across member states. Whether you are a non-EU national or from another EU country, there are key factors to consider when moving.

1. Visa and Work Permits

If you are moving from a non-EU country, the first step is understanding which visa or residence permit you’ll need. The type of visa often depends on your reason for moving—whether it’s for work, education, or family reasons. For instance, those relocating for work will need a work visa and, potentially, a work permit specific to the country.

• Work Visa: Typically, EU countries require a job offer before issuing a work visa. Skilled professionals can often benefit from specialised visa programs aimed at filling shortages in certain sectors like tech, engineering, and healthcare.
• Student Visa: If you’re studying, you’ll need proof of admission to an accredited university and financial means to support yourself during your studies.
• Residence Permit: Once you arrive, you may need to register with local authorities to obtain a residence permit. This is typically required for stays longer than 90 days.

2. EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a popular option for highly skilled workers from non-EU countries. It offers streamlined access to work and residency across most EU countries, provided you have a higher education degree and a binding job offer that meets the salary threshold. This is ideal for professionals in fields such as IT, medicine, and engineering.

3. Rights for EU Nationals

For EU citizens moving within the EU, the process is simpler. Under the principle of free movement, EU nationals have the right to live and work in any other EU country without needing a visa. However, they may still need to register with local authorities if they plan to stay for more than three months.

Planning Your Move to the EU: Practical Steps

1. Housing and Accommodation

Securing housing is a top priority when moving. Rental markets differ significantly across Europe, so it’s wise to research the cost of living in your destination city. In major cities like Paris, Berlin, or Amsterdam, housing can be expensive and competitive, so start looking early and consider using online platforms or local agents to help with your search.

2. Healthcare

Healthcare in Europe varies by country, but the overall quality is high. If you are an EU citizen, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you to access public healthcare in any EU country, often at reduced rates. Non-EU nationals typically need to arrange private health insurance unless their employer provides coverage.

3. Financial Planning

Make sure you understand the tax laws of your new country, especially if you will be working there. Some countries have bilateral agreements to avoid double taxation, but it’s best to get professional tax advice. You may also need to open a local bank account for easier transactions and salary deposits.

Bringing Your Pets to the EU

For many people moving to the EU, pets are an integral part of the family, and it’s crucial to understand the regulations for bringing them with you. The EU has established clear rules to ensure the health and safety of pets entering its borders.

1. Microchipping and Identification

All dogs, cats, and ferrets must be microchipped with an ISO-standard chip or have a readable tattoo (if applied before July 3, 2011) to travel within the EU. The microchip must be placed before any required rabies vaccination is administered.

2. Vaccinations and Health Certificates

• Rabies Vaccination: Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies before travelling to Europe. The vaccination must be at least 21 days old, and the pet must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination. You will also need to keep the vaccination up-to-date to maintain compliance.
• Pet Passport: If you’re travelling within the EU, you’ll need a European Pet Passport issued by an authorised vet. This passport includes your pet’s vaccination records and microchip details. For non-EU countries, pets will require an EU animal health certificate, which must be issued within 10 days of arrival.

Keep in mind that some countries, such as Finland, Ireland, and Malta, also require dogs to be treated for tapeworm (Echinococcus) between 24 to 120 hours before arrival.

3. Traveling with Multiple Pets

If you plan to bring more than five pets, special rules apply. You must provide documentation proving that your pets are travelling for competitions or sporting events. Otherwise, stricter regulations akin to animal trade rules come into effect.

4. Bringing Pets from Non-EU Countries

Pets from non-EU countries are also welcome in Europe, but the documentation differs slightly. An EU animal health certificate, signed by an official veterinarian in the country of origin, is required. This certificate allows your pet to travel between EU countries for up to four months, provided its rabies vaccination is valid.

Settling In: Final Considerations

Once you’ve arrived and settled into your new home, there are still a few key tasks to complete:

• Registration: Many countries require you to register with local authorities within a specific timeframe (often 90 days).
• Learning the Language: While English is widely spoken in many EU countries, learning the local language can greatly enhance your experience and integration.

Move to the EU With Elliott

If you are considering moving overseas, our International Moving Guide and International Relocation page are excellent starting points. Our experience consultants are also available for any queries you have about moving and moving quotes.

Conclusion

Relocating to Europe presents an incredible opportunity for personal and professional growth, offering a wealth of new experiences. With thorough preparation—whether it involves securing the appropriate visas, understanding pet travel regulations, or setting up healthcare—you can ensure a smooth and successful transition. If you’re bringing a pet, rest assured that with the necessary documents and vaccinations, your companion can easily accompany you on this exciting journey, making the move even more rewarding.

For detailed information on immigration and pet travel rules, visit the European Union Immigration Guide and Pet Travel in the EU. Please keep in mind that the information in our blogs is for information purposes only. Additionally, country laws and emigration rules change. It is therefore essential to get in touch with the local home affairs office and use the current government immigration or citizenship resources they make available to you.