On Thursday morning, Romain Schneider briefed the Labour, Employment and Social Security Committee on changes to social security law in Luxembourg due to the Brexit deal.
Schneider clarified the conditions for cross-border workers, students and travellers in light of the Brexit deal agreed earlier this year.
This means social security benefits will continue to be available to people considered cross-border workers on 31 December 2020. This applies to Britons working in Luxembourg, as well as Luxembourgish citizens working in the UK. Employees will be subject to the social security system in the country where they work, in accordance with European regulations, after the date of 31 December 2020.
Employees who were in a cross-border situation between the European Union and the UK prior to 31 December 2020 but ceased their situation on that date will also continue to benefit from protection. For example, a Luxembourg citizen who worked in the United Kingdom from 2009 to 2015 and then returned to work in Luxembourg will be entitled to take into account periods of insurance in the United Kingdom for their pension in Luxembourg. The same will apply to Luxembourg insurance periods for the granting of any British pension.
This protocol will not apply to long-term care benefits, while the coordination of disability benefits is subject to changes. Family benefits do not fall within the scope of the agreement, meaning national laws will apply. Consequently, a worker insured in Luxembourg will not be able to benefit from family allowances for his children who live in the United Kingdom and vice versa.
Students
Luxembourg students insured in Luxembourg and pursuing studies in the United Kingdom will be able to continue to use their European Health Insurance Card during their stay in the United Kingdom to obtain healthcare if required. However, if a student began their studies after 31 December 2020, a health contribution payment (also known as an "immigration health surcharge") may be requested by British authorities if the duration of their stay in the UK exceeds six months. A reimbursement of this contribution may be requested from the relevant British authorities if the student is in possession of a valid Luxembourg European health insurance card.
Travel
People with insurance in Luxembourg can continue to use their European Health Insurance Card during their holidays in the United Kingdom to obtain any necessary healthcare during their stay.
The protocol above will be applicable for a period of 15 years. At the end of this period, discussions will recommence for its possible renewal.
