For the first time, the university has established a clear policy on working from abroad. Until now, there were no uniform rules governing the practice. In a message posted on the intranet, TU/e emphasizes that it is an on-campus institution where collaboration and in-person interaction are central to its mission.

The university also points to tax and social security regulations. According to TU/e, working from another country can create complex and costly situations for both employers and employees.

Exceptions

The policy outlines four situations in which working from abroad may be permitted under certain conditions. These include temporary work-related stays abroad, such as international assignments or sabbaticals, as well as limited remote work from border regions in Belgium or Germany.

There is also limited room for employees to work from abroad for personal reasons—a practice commonly known as a “workation.” In such cases, TU/e encourages employees to use vacation time instead. Working from abroad at an employee’s own request is therefore limited to a maximum of two workweeks per calendar year.

In all cases, approval from a supervisor is required.

The new policy will be published on the intranet and will apply to all new situations from that point forward.