What is a transitional period?
The Accession Treaty introduces the option of transitional period, which limits the free movement of workers from new member countries to a maximum period of 7 years, in 2+3+2 format – i.e. 2 or another 3 years, then additional extension of the transitional period can be considered. This transitional period is in effect only in the states that have decided or are still going to decide upon its implementation, while specific forms of such limitation can differ from state to state. Certain restrictions have been announced by all the original member states except Ireland and Sweden. The United Kingdom, however, limits only the provision of social benefits in the case of losing a job. Getting a job in other states requires a work permit, however, the prerequisites for the work permit differ from state to state. For specific information about transitional measures in each EU/EEA country and about work permit acquisition procedures, please visit this website, the section For job-seekers in t
