Services
Want to buy or sell services in the EU? This section will guide you through the basics of the EU internal market for services in terms of legislation, recognition of professional qualifications, standards applied and external trade.
Services are crucial to the EU economy. They account for over 70% of the EU’s GDP and for an equal share of its employment.
Rights of EU service suppliers
If you are a European services supplier, you have the right to:
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establish a company in another EU country;
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provide or receive services in an EU country other than the one where your business is established.
Legal basis of the EU internal market for services
What is the legal basis for the European Single Market for Services?
The Services Directive (2006/123/EC) covers most services sectors including retail, tourism, construction and business services. It applies to services traded within one or between EU countries. In short, the Directive
- cuts red tape and simplifies the for service providers to establish themselves at their home and abroad;
- simplifies the rules for providing services across borders in other EU countries;
- strengthens the rights of consumers of services;
- ensures easier access to a wider range of services.
Use the Quick guide to the Services Directive to find out which services are covered, what are the main provisions and how it will benefit the service providers and service recipients.
In addition to the Services Directive, a number of sector specific laws set the rules for financial services, transport, telecommunications and broadcasting.
Recognition of professional qualifications
Are professional qualifications recognised between EU countries?
Yes, professionals in the EU can move freely across borders and practice their occupation or provide services abroad.
- The Professional Qualifications Directive (2005/36/EC) facilitates the mutual recognition of professional qualifications between EU countries.
- There are also specific Directives for lawyers and certain other professions dealing with establishment in another EU country and the cross-border provision of services.
- The European Professional Card is a EU-wide digital procedure for the recognition of professional qualifications. It is currently available for general care nurses, physiotherapists, pharmacists, real estate agents and mountain guides.
- the database of regulated professions contains information on regulated professions, statistics on migrating professionals, contact points and national authorities in EU countries, EEA countries and Switzerland.
About the EU single market for services.
External trade
EU's bilateral trade agreements with third countries lead to significant market openness for trade in services. The list of trade agreements is available here.
Find information on trade in services in the market you are interested in.