The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) that was signed on December 24, 2020, covers many aspects of trade relations between the European Union and the United Kingdom, including social security. The agreement outlines the rules on the coordination of social security systems between the EU and the UK and provides safeguards for the social welfare of citizens who have moved or intend to move between the two jurisdictions.

Under the agreement, the existing coordination rules for social security systems between EU member states will continue to apply to EU citizens who have moved, or intend to move to the UK and UK nationals who have moved or intend to move to the EU. This means that individuals who have paid into social security systems in both the EU and the UK will be able to continue to receive benefits in both jurisdictions.

The TCA also includes provisions on the export of social security benefits. It ensures that individuals who are entitled to benefits, such as pensions, disability benefits or child benefits, can continue to receive them even if they move between the EU and the UK. This provision aims to ensure that individuals do not lose the benefits they have earned over their working lives.

Another important provision of the agreement concerns healthcare. The TCA ensures that individuals who are traveling or living temporarily in the EU or the UK can continue to access healthcare under the same conditions as they would in their home country. The agreement also provides for the reimbursement of healthcare costs incurred by EU and UK citizens when they receive medical treatment in the other jurisdiction.

The TCA also sets out the procedures for resolving disputes related to social security coordination. A joint committee, composed of representatives from the EU and the UK, will be established to resolve any issues that may arise related to the implementation of the agreement.

Overall, the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement provides a framework for the continued coordination of social security systems between the EU and the UK. It ensures that individuals who have contributed to social security systems in both jurisdictions can continue to receive benefits, and that those who are traveling or living temporarily in the EU or the UK can access healthcare. The agreement provides a safety net for citizens who have moved or intend to move between the EU and the UK, ensuring they can continue to receive the social welfare benefits they are entitled to under the coordination of the respective systems.