Posted Workers Directive
EU Directive 96/71/EC — cross-border project deployment within the EU
The Posted Workers Directive (96/71/EC, updated by 2018/957/EC) allows employers established in one EU member state to temporarily second (post) workers to another EU member state for a fixed project or service contract — without the worker needing a separate national work permit for the destination country. For Asian workers, this is accessed via WorkersFromAsia's partner agencies in Romania and Poland who are legally established EU entities. Workers enter Romania or Poland via standard national work permits, then are posted to Western European project sites.
Step-by-Step Process
Worker Enters EU via Romania/Poland
Worker receives a Romanian or Polish work permit (see those routes). The EU agency partner employs the worker directly under local law.
Agency Receives Project Contract
EU agency wins a service contract in Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, or elsewhere. A posting notice (A1 certificate) is filed with the social security authority in the destination country.
A1 Certificate Issued
The A1 certificate confirms the worker remains covered by their home-country social security system (Romania/Poland). Processing: 1–4 weeks.
Worker Is Deployed
Worker travels to destination country on EU freedom-of-movement rights (no additional visa required). Terms of the destination country's minimum wage and working conditions apply.
Documentation Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a posted worker an employee or a contractor?
A posted worker is an employee of the sending agency. They are not self-employed and are protected by full labour rights in both the sending and receiving countries.
How long can a posting last?
Standard postings can last up to 12 months, extendable to 18 months with notification. After 18 months, full host-country labour law applies.
What minimum wage applies?
The destination country's minimum wage and sector tariffs apply. For Germany (€12.82/hour), Netherlands (€13.27/hour), and Belgium (€16/hour), posted workers must be paid at least these rates.
Legal disclaimer: Immigration law changes frequently. The information on this page reflects the best available guidance as of early 2025. All placements via WorkersFromAsia are reviewed for current visa route eligibility before the job is published. Contact us if you have specific questions about a candidate's eligibility.