In what way the EU shapes our daily routines
Journey, exert yourself at work, or communicate over international borders: This is feasible within the European Union, which will have its next parliament election happening in approximately two weeks. Some advantages will only truly materialize when they vanish again, much like the UK's exit from the EU in 2020 - Brexit. Besides the major political and economic concerns, the EU also impacts citizens' lives in numerous areas. Here's a summary:
Travel: Wish to explore within the 27 EU countries? You can use your passport or a valid identity card. This also applies to visiting Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Normally, the identity document doesn't need to be presented at the border. When traveling by car within the EU's interior, your national driving license is recognized.
Phone calls: Using your cell phone while on vacation, business trips, or during an exchange semester in another EU country? You'll pay the same price as at home. This includes calls, text messages, and data services. The same applies in the opposite direction: if a mother from Germany phones her daughter in Italy, for instance, she won't incur extra charges.
Work: The term "freedom of movement for workers" allows EU citizens to work wherever they wish in the EU without a work permit.
Studying: Universities in the EU should consider EU nationals and prospective students from other EU countries equally and give them the same opportunities for acceptance. While admission requirements may differ, EU nationality should not be the sole reason for rejection. International exchange programs like Erasmus+ enable pupils, students, and trainees to gain experience abroad.
Housing: EU citizens can relocate to any EU country. This encompasses those looking to work, study, or settle down. However, due to Brexit, the UK and the EU's relationship has changed. Starting from December 31, 2020, visas were required for residence, study, and work in the UK.
Money Matters: No more hassle with currency exchange and high fees before your trip - in 20 of the 27 EU member states, the euro is indeed the official currency.
Shopping: The European Union ensures consumer protection through a guarantee law that covers all its member states. Should an item be defective, it must be repaired, replaced, or the price refunded. Additionally, customers enjoy a two-year free warranty and a 14-day return policy for both in-store and online purchases.
Health: Sick abroad? The European Health Insurance Card ensures access to urgent healthcare in other EU countries, at the same terms and cost as in the patient's home country. If you have statutory health insurance from Germany, you'll find the European equivalent on the back of your insurance card.
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Consumers in the EU benefit from a two-year free warranty and a 14-day return policy for both in-store and online purchases, as the EU ensures robust consumer protection laws across its member states. The labor market within the EU also provides opportunities for workers, with the 'freedom of movement for workers' allowing EU citizens to work in any EU country without a work permit.
Source: www.ntv.de
