A1 Certificates and Social Security

A1 Certificates and Social Security

Keep posted workers in their home country's social security system with A1 certificates

A1 Application

Apply to home country authorities before posting begins.

EU & UK

EU Regulation 883/2004 and UK-Italy bilateral agreement.

Validity & Renewal

Monitor validity and renew before expiry.

The A1 certificate (or Portable Document A1, PDA1) confirms that a posted worker remains subject to the social security legislation of the sending country. This avoids double contributions (in both home and host country) and simplifies payroll. For EU postings, the certificate is issued under EU Regulation 883/2004. The employer applies to the social security authority in the sending country before the posting begins. The certificate states the period of validity and the applicable legislation.

For UK-Italy postings (post-Brexit), the UK-Italy bilateral social security agreement applies. A1 certificates are issued by UK authorities. The process and validity periods differ from the EU system. We help you apply for A1 certificates, ensure applications are submitted in time, and advise on renewal when postings are extended. We also assist with PD A1 for EU postings from other member states. Without a valid A1, the worker may become subject to Italian social security (INPS), which can significantly increase costs and administrative burden.

What We Cover

Key elements of A1 and social security coordination

A1 Application

Guidance on applying to the correct authority in the sending country.

EU Regulation 883/2004

Coordination rules for EU/EEA postings.

UK-Italy Bilateral

Post-Brexit agreement and UK A1 process.

Validity & Duration

Typical validity periods and extension rules.

Renewal

Renewal process when posting is extended.

INPS Avoidance

Avoid Italian social security when A1 applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about A1 certificates

When should we apply for the A1?

Before the posting begins. Applications can take several weeks. We recommend applying as soon as the posting is confirmed to avoid delays.

What if the A1 is refused?

Refusals can occur if the posting does not meet the criteria. We help you understand the reasons and explore alternatives, including appeal or INPS registration if necessary.

How long is the A1 valid?

It varies by country and posting type. EU postings often have a default of 24 months, extendable. UK-Italy has different rules. We advise on your specific case.

What happens if we work without an A1?

The worker may be subject to Italian social security (INPS). The employer could face contributions, penalties, and back payments. We help you avoid this by securing the A1 in advance.

Italiza Offices

Italiza has offices strategically located in Italy, the United States of America, Brazil and Argentina.