If you are an EU citizen (excluding Irish citizens) and you moved across the Irish border or started a cross-border job after 31 December 2020, your access to cross-border healthcare and social security may be affected by post-Brexit arrangements between the UK and the EU.

Cross-border healthcare rights can depend on several factors, including where you live, where you work, your employment status, and which country is responsible for your social security contributions. EU citizens living or working across the border may experience different rules for accessing healthcare services, medical treatment, prescriptions, and related benefits in Northern Ireland or Ireland.

For some people, cross-border healthcare arrangements may include access to public healthcare services in one jurisdiction while working or paying social security contributions in another. Others may need to apply for specific documentation or confirm eligibility before accessing healthcare services across the border.

Because arrangements between the UK and the EU continue to evolve, guidance on cross-border healthcare can change over time. It is important to check the latest official information before making decisions about healthcare cover, residency, employment, or social security contributions.

You can find further information about healthcare entitlements and social security coordination from the European Commission and nidirect.

Further guidance for EU citizens will be published as updated information becomes available.

Page last checked on November 2020

Links last checked: 27th July 2026

This webpage is for general information purposes only and while we endeavour to keep it up-to-date, errors may occur. It is very important that you check with the relevant body to ensure the information is current and is applicable to your situation.

If you would like to suggest amendments or highlight new information that could be useful to others please don’t hesitate to get in touch.