Call for Easier A1 Form Process to Ease Burden on EU Businesses
The European business travel association BT4Europe has proposed a series of reforms to the EU’s A1 form to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for businesses.
The A1 form, introduced in 2010, requires travelers to prove payment of social security in another member state when crossing borders for work. BT4Europe argues this requirement, while necessary for longer-term assignments, creates unnecessary administrative burdens for short-term trips like business meetings, trade fairs, and training events.
“Streamlining A1 form requirements is not just about reducing paperwork; it’s about empowering businesses to thrive in a connected Europe,” said Odete Pimenta da Silva, a founding member of BT4Europe.
The association’s proposed reforms target a 14-day exemption from A1 requirements for these temporary activities. In addition, BT4Europe seeks to broaden the definition of business travel to include more temporary professional endeavors, such as client meetings, internal audits, industry events, and recruitment activities, all of which currently necessitate the cumbersome A1 process.
BT4Europe recognizes that the A1 form is still essential for longer business trips. Therefore, they recommend mandatory digitization of the form process for stays exceeding 14 days. This digitization, they argue, would ensure a more harmonized and efficient system across all EU member states.
Alignment with EU Goals
“Our proposed reforms will enable businesses of all sizes to operate more efficiently while supporting the EU’s broader goals of simplification and sustainability,” explained Pimenta da Silva. The reforms align with a push towards digital travel initiatives championed by the EU. Last month, BT4Europe embraced a European Commission proposal to create a “digital declaration” system for Posted Workers, who spend extended periods working in another EU country. The association urged, however, that this system be made compulsory rather than voluntary across all member states.
Patrick Diemer, chair of BT4Europe, expressed satisfaction that the association’s position aligns with the new commissioner for transport and tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas, who advocates for paperless travel by 2030. “We are pleased that BT4Europe’s position now aligns with that of the new commissioner,” Diemer stated.
These proposed reforms aim to modernize the A1 form process, making it more efficient and relevant to the evolving nature of business travel within the EU. By simplifying procedures and embracing digitalization, BT4Europe hopes to create a smoother framework for businesses operating across borders.
