In November 2023, the European Commission (EC) decided to open an infringement procedure against Greece1 and to send a reasoned opinion to Italy2 for not complying with European Union (EU) rules for family benefits.
Both countries present requirements for residence to foreign nationals, for example to mobile workers, to be eligible for family benefits. The EU regulation for coordination of social security3 prohibits requirements for residence for receiving social security benefits, such as family benefits.
Greece now has two months to respond and take necessary measures, and if they do not, the EC may decide to send a reasoned opinion to Greece.
Italy has two months to respond and take necessary measures, and if they do not, the EC may decide to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU).