Although EU countries independently design and operate their own social security systems, millions of people live or work outside their home country within the European Economic Area. It is important that both these individuals and the authorities concerned have clarity regarding their social security rights and obligations. To clarify and protect these cross-border entitlements, social security coordination rules were introduced. These rules ensure continuity of benefits, help prevent double contributions, and support the free movement of persons.
.jpg "EU Social Security Coordination Between Member States Is Being Modernised")
On 7 July 2026, the European Parliament adopted new EU social security coordination rules. In Hungary, as in many other Member States, the new provisions will be introduced gradually. Therefore, the regulation is expected to be fully applied across the EU from July 2028.
In the future, these changes are expected to strengthen the protection of rights while making administrative procedures clearer and simpler.
More Harmonised Social Security Coordination Is Expected In:
- long-term care benefits,
- family benefits,
- unemployment benefits,
- economically inactive
persons,
- cross-border commuters,
- posted workers,
- and, last but not least, employees working in multiple countries.
Unemployment Benefits
The new regulation clearly defines how insurance periods, periods of employment, and periods of self-employment completed in different Member States must be taken into account when determining entitlement to unemployment benefits. For example, if a person moves to another Member State to seek employment, they may continue to receive unemployment benefits for up to six months. This period may even be extended until the end of their entitlement period.
Economically Inactive Citizens
The new regulation states that individuals who are neither working nor actively seeking employment cannot be excluded from contributing to the financing of the health insurance system.
Unemployment Benefits for Cross-Border Commuters
If a person has been continuously employed, self-employed, or insured for
at least 22 weeks in a Member State other than their country of residence, the
Member State in which they were employed will bear the financial responsibility
for unemployment benefits.
The LeitnerLeitner team of experts provides comprehensive support to businesses, employees, and international private clients in matters related to social security. Our practical, solution-oriented advisory services help ensure compliance with legal obligations and the effective exercise of available rights. Thanks to our integrated service model, clients can access our tax, payroll, legal, and employment experts through a single point of contact.
Rules on Postings Become Stricter in Several Areas
·
Instead of
the current requirement of 30 days, a posted worker must have been insured in
the sending country for at least three months before the posting begins.
·
For postings
exceeding 24 months, the posting must be interrupted for at least two months in
order for the worker to maintain insurance coverage in the sending state.
·
Where posted
workers replace one another, the 24-month period must be assessed cumulatively.
· The document certifying the posting must be applied for before the posting commences.
Business Trips and Short-Term Postings
Only participation in meetings, professional events, training sessions, or conferences qualifies as a business trip. For short-term postings of up to three days, prior notification will generally not be required, subject to certain exceptions.
Working in Multiple Member States
The new rules provide a more precise framework for determining which country’s social security legislation applies when an employee works in several Member States or performs work abroad under a posting arrangement.
Closer Cooperation Between Authorities
Information exchange relating to social security status in international
employment situations will be improved, thereby strengthening cooperation
between national authorities. Clearer procedures and deadlines will also be
introduced for resolving disputes concerning social security documents.
