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.
Multistate long-term A1 certificates (according to Article 13)
WorkFlex supports long-term multistate A1 certificates under Article 13 for cases of “gewöhnliche Mehrfacherwerbstätigkeit” (ordinary multiple employment). These certificates are suitable for employees who regularly work across multiple EU/EEA member states.
If you require a multistate A1 certificate, please contact our support team through the chat function on the platform or by email at [email protected].
Please note that applying for a multistate A1 certificate request via WorkFlex involves a usage of 2 credits.
Guidance on using Article 13 A1 certificates
Clients with valid Article 13 A1 certificates can continue utilizing them. For any trips outside the countries listed on the multistate certificate, individual A1 certificates under Article 12 are still required.
For the countries in which WorkFlex can apply for A1 and CoC certificates, see WorkFlex A1 & CoC Country Scope and Current Challenges.
A1 certificates can also become relevant after a trip, during an employer or social security audit. See A1 certificates in social security and payroll audits.