An A1 form (more precisely, an A1 certificate) is a document that proves you’re paying National Insurance in the UK, so that you don’t have to pay the equivalent social security contributions in the country you’re working in.
Requirements vary significantly by country. France and Italy enforce them most strictly, while Germany and the Netherlands are more relaxed. The certificate technically applies across EU countries, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and Gibraltar.
Every paid member of a touring party requires their own certificate. Self-employed professionals apply individually, while employees have their employers submit on their behalf.
The process varies by employment status — CA3837 for self-employed individuals, CA3822 for employees, and CA8421 for multi-country tours.
Official estimates suggest 10-15 days processing time, but applications frequently take six weeks or longer. Apply months in advance. Without one, venues may withhold portions of performance fees.