1. What is the European Professional Card (EPC)?
The European Professional Card is an electronic certificate that proves the recognition of your professional qualifications in another European Union member state. It was established to simplify and speed up the recognition process, particularly for regulated professions such as physiotherapists.
The main advantage of the EPC is that it is entirely paperless. Procedures are carried out online via the EU Login platform, allowing healthcare professionals to track the progress of their application in real-time. If successful, the competent authorities of the member state where you wish to relocate confirm the recognition of your qualifications, allowing you to start your activity quickly.
2. Conditions and steps to obtain the EPC for physiotherapists
a) Check eligibility
The first step to obtaining the EPC is to check if you are eligible. Currently, the EPC applies only to certain regulated professions, including:
- Physiotherapists
- General care nurses
- Pharmacists
You can view the complete list of professions eligible for the EPC on the European Commission's website. This procedure is only for EU professionals wishing to work in another EU country.
b) Gather the necessary documents
Before starting the procedure, it is essential to gather the required documents, which may vary depending on your situation and the specific requirements of each country. Generally, you will need the following:
- Proof of nationality (identity card or passport)
- Physiotherapy diploma or other document proving your professional qualifications
- Certificate of good conduct issued by your supervising body or professional board
- Proof of professional experience, if required in the host country
Documents must be translated and certified, especially if they are not in the official language of the host country. For more details on required documents, you can visit the official European Union site for the EPC.
c) Create an account on the EU Login portal
Once the documents are gathered, it is time to begin the online procedure via the EU Login portal. This platform allows you to submit your application, upload your documents, and pay any administrative fees.
The platform is intuitive and guides you throughout the process. Once your file is complete, it will be reviewed by the competent authorities of your home country before being transferred to those of the country where you wish to work.
d) Track the application status
One of the major advantages of the EPC is that you can track the progress of your application online, in real-time. If additional documents are needed, you will be notified, allowing you to respond quickly and avoid unnecessary delays. You can access your file and check its status via the online tracking.
3. Processing time and validity of the EPC
The processing time to obtain the EPC can vary from one country to another. However, generally, the authorities have a time frame of 1 to 4 months to evaluate your application, from the receipt of all required documents.
Regarding the validity of the EPC, this depends on the type of application you make:
- If you apply to establish yourself permanently in the host country, the EPC is permanent.
- If you apply to work on a temporary or occasional basis, your EPC will only be valid for a maximum of one year. You will need to renew your application to continue working in the concerned country.
Thus, it is strongly recommended for physiotherapists considering a permanent move to another EU country to apply for an EPC for long-term establishment. This will prevent you from being limited in the duration of your professional practice.
Conclusion
For European physiotherapists, as well as general care nurses and pharmacists, the European Professional Card represents an effective and fast solution to work abroad without undergoing long and complex administrative procedures. If you plan to continue your career in another EU country, the EPC allows you to take this step confidently. Euromotion Medical can also support you in your professional mobility project, providing personalized advice and assistance in your administrative procedures.
