EU free-movement rights do not remove local address-registration requirements. For stays over three months, the host country may require residence registration; the evidence depends on whether you work, study, retire or support yourself.
Your checklist
First steps
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Your status shapes the paperwork
EU citizens can move to another EU country to live, work, study, look for a job or retire. The conditions and documents for a stay longer than three months differ by situation. A worker may need proof of employment; a student may need enrolment, resources and comprehensive health cover.
EU rights do not replace local registration
A residence right under EU rules and a municipality address entry serve different purposes. Germany, Spain and Italy each have local address-registration procedures, and cities may provide different online or appointment options.
Keep tax, health and residence questions separate
Address registration does not decide your tax residence, and an EHIC is not a universal substitute for health cover when you move permanently. Contact the relevant national authority for each question and retain written confirmations.
Common questions
Can an EU citizen move without a job?
Often, but the conditions for a longer stay depend on your situation. Students and people who are not working may need to show adequate resources and comprehensive health insurance. Confirm the current rules for your destination.
Do I need to register after three months?
Your host country may require residence registration after three months, and it may also require a local address registration. Check both procedures with the national and municipal authorities.
Does EU citizenship give me automatic healthcare?
No. Healthcare coverage depends on your work, study, pension and insurance situation. Ask the competent insurer which system covers you and what to register locally.
Does address registration give me permission to work?
Address registration records where you live. Work rights come from your citizenship or immigration permission and are a separate question.
Official sources
Read this first
- Your Europe: EU residence rightsEU-wide starting point; destination-country registration may still apply
- Your Europe: residence rights for workersEU citizen rules; national procedures still vary
- Your Europe: students’ residence rightsEU citizen study route; check host-country registration
Rules can vary by nationality, work or study status, and city. Confirm your route with the official authority before you act.