In an increasingly interconnected world, the international mobility of workers has become commonplace. But what about their social protection when they cross borders? This is where bilateral social security agreements come into play, such as the one between France and Andorra. At AND Capital, a firm specializing in company formation and tax optimization in AndorraWe support our customers in understanding and using this agreement, so that expatriation or cross-border activity can be carried out with complete peace of mind.
The main principles of the Franco-Andorran agreement
Signed in 2003, the social security agreement between France and Andorra aims to coordinate the two countries' social security schemes. It is based on three key principles:
- Single applicable legislation workers are subject to only one system, generally that of the country of employment.
- Equal treatment The same rights apply to nationals of both countries.
- Totalizing insurance periods periods of contribution in each country are taken into account for entitlement purposes.
This agreement covers a wide range of services:
- Sickness, maternity and disability
- Old age and survival
- Work-related accidents and illnesses
- Family benefits
Continued social protection for expatriates and cross-border commuters
For French people who choose to settle in Andorra, whether to work or spend their holidays here retirementThe agreement guarantees that their social security rights will be maintained. Periods worked in France are taken into account when calculating their benefits in Andorra, and vice versa.
Thanks to the agreement, a French expatriate who goes to work in Andorra retains his pension rights acquired in France. These will be added to those accumulated during his Andorran career to determine his pension.
- The And Capital team
Frontier workers, who live in France but work in Andorra, are also concerned. In principle, they are affiliated to the Andorran scheme and receive the benefits provided under the Principality's legislation. However, in the event of illness or maternity, they can choose to receive treatment in France, with the Andorran social security fund (CASS) covering the cost.
Simplification for businesses
For employers, the agreement clarifies social security obligations. In the case of temporary secondment, employees remain affiliated to their original scheme for a maximum period of 24 months. Beyond that, or in the event of local recruitment, the legislation of the host country applies.
For French companies sending employees on assignment to Andorra, the agreement avoids double contributions. A certificate of secondment is sufficient to maintain affiliation in France.
- The And Capital team
Andorran companies setting up operations in France, for example through a holding company or a patrimonial companyare subject to the same rules. Their employees on temporary secondment remain affiliated to the CASS, while those recruited locally are subject to the French system.
Simplified formalities
To benefit from the provisions of the agreement, simply contact the appropriate organization:
- In France, the caisses primaires d'assurance maladie (CPAM) for health care, and the caisses d'assurance retraite et de la santé au travail (CARSAT) for retirement.
- In Andorra, CASS manages all branches (sickness, old age, family, unemployment).
The documents to be supplied vary according to the situation (certificate of secondment, portable forms, proof of civil status and activity, etc.). Processing times are generally a few weeks.
The social security agreement between France and Andorra provides a protective framework for the mobility of workers between the two countries. By clarifying the applicable rules and organizing the continuity of rights, it facilitates economic exchanges and cross-border career paths.
At AND Capital, we can guide you through all the steps involved in setting up your business in Andorra. Contact us for personalized support, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with advantages of the Principality in terms of taxation and quality of life.
