In a decisive step towards a more integrated and competitive single market, the Council of the EU and the European Parliament have reached a provisional agreement on a landmark regulation that will fundamentally change the way cross-border services operate. Signed as part of the ambitious “One Europe, One Market” roadmap, this new framework focuses on two critical pillars: the full digitalization of the administrative process for posted workers and the introduction of stricter protection measures against exposure to hazardous chemicals in the workplace.

For international companies, logistics providers, and corporate employers operating in or relocating to Slovenia, these updates represent a major operational shift. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming regulations, their expected timelines, and the practical implications for your company’s compliance.

The End of Red Tape: Standardized Digital Declarations

A posted worker is defined as an employee who is sent by his or her employer to perform a service in another EU member state on a temporary basis. Historically, navigating the different and often fragmented national portals across 27 member states has been one of the top ten most restrictive barriers to cross-border business mobility within the European Union.

To remove these barriers, the new EU regulation introduces a single, fully digital process for submitting posting declarations:

  • A multilingual public interface: The European Commission will set up a central online portal where companies can submit their e-declarations.
  • Voluntary but exclusive adoption: Member States may choose to adopt this centralized EU interface over their existing national portals. However, once a Member State opts in, it must use this interface exclusively and is legally prohibited from requiring additional national declarations or redundant paperwork.
  • Significant cost and time savings: The European Labour Authority (ELA) estimates that the use of a single digital form will reduce the time needed to complete posting declarations by 73%. In addition, even with partial participation by Member States, administrative costs for service providers are expected to fall by 58%. If all 27 Member States adopt the system, the administrative burden will fall by 81%.
  • Integration of document upload: The provisional agreement introduces a new feature allowing service providers to upload all supporting documents directly to the public interface, replacing fragmented national procedures.

Practical Impact on the Slovenian Business Landscape

Currently, companies in Slovenia registering employees for cross-border work must coordinate with several local authorities. Typically, this starts with obtaining an A1 form from the Slovenian Health Insurance Institute (ZZZS), which is often managed through the national Slovenian Business Point (SPOT) portal.

The move to a single EU-wide digital portal will significantly ease the burden on Slovenian logistics, manufacturing and construction companies that frequently post workers to neighbouring Austria, Italy or Germany. By centralizing communication between national enforcement authorities and service providers, compliance checks will be faster and less prone to bureaucratic delays.

Enhanced Worker Protection: Strict Limits on Hazardous Chemicals

In parallel with the digitization initiative, the tentative agreement introduces rigorous safety measures to protect workers from high-risk substances. The new rules set strict workplace exposure limits for

  • Cobalt
  • Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
  • 1,4-dioxane

The European Commission estimates that these exposure limits will prevent around 1,700 cases of lung cancer and 19,000 other occupational diseases over the next 40 years. Beyond the human impact, these preventive measures are expected to save up to €1.16 billion in healthcare costs across the EU, representing a vital long-term investment in the well-being of the workforce.

Timeline and Next Steps

The provisional agreements must now be formally approved and adopted by both the EU Council and the European Parliament before they can enter into force. As part of the “One Europe, One Market” action plan, the digital declaration system is expected to be fully implemented by the end of 2027, making proactive compliance planning essential for forward-thinking business leaders.

About Us

At SIBIZ, we pride ourselves on being the best in Slovenia in the areas of business migration, corporate relocation and individual relocation. We specialize in helping business professionals, corporate clients and individuals navigate the complex landscape of Slovenian regulations and local administrative procedures. Our team of experts is here to ensure that your transition to Slovenia is smooth, compliant, and highly successful.

For more information: www.sibiz.eu