Unemployed, Can I Move Abroad?

If you are receiving unemployment benefits from your home country, you will have to register with the employment service in your new country. You and your family will still be covered by the social security system in your home country – e.g. for healthcare costs.

Even if you don’t receive unemployment benefit from your home country, you may still be covered by its social security system: check with your local authorities before leaving. As long as your home health insurance covers you during your stay abroad, administrative procedures can be simpler if you have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Sample story

Marta is Portuguese and moved to Spain four months ago to try to find a job there. At present, she is living at a friend’s house. The Spanish police asked her to register her residence at the town hall, and to prove she had sufficient means to support herself while in Spain.

In fact, as a jobseeker, Marta is entitled to stay in Spain for at least 6 months without having to register her residence there. She only has to prove that she is a jobseeker who is actively looking for a job. The Spanish authorities cannot require her to demonstrate she can support herself financially.

CAB Spain thanks the EU Commission for this information.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.