The culmination of Brexit marked a significant shift in the UK’s immigration landscape, heralding substantial changes for EU citizens in the UK, prospective EU migrants, and Britons living in the EU. Here’s an in-depth look at the post-Brexit immigration scenario and its implications for these groups.
For EU Citizens Living in the UK
One of the most immediate changes following Brexit was the introduction of the EU Settlement Scheme. EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens and their family members who were residing in the UK before the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December 2020 needed to apply to this scheme to continue living in the UK legally.
The scheme offers two types of status: Settled Status, for those who have lived in the UK for a continuous five-year period, and Pre-Settled Status, for those who haven’t reached the five-year threshold. Settled Status grants individuals the right to stay in the UK indefinitely, whereas Pre-Settled Status allows them to stay until they reach the five-year mark, at which point they can apply for Settled Status.
Key Points for EU Citizens:
The deadline for applying to the EU Settlement Scheme was 30 June 2021, but late applications are still being considered under certain circumstances.
Those granted status under the scheme retain their rights to work, study, access public services and healthcare, and travel to and from the UK.
For Future EU Migrants
Following the end of the freedom of movement between the UK and the EU, new immigration rules apply to EU citizens moving to the UK from 1 January 2021. These individuals are now subject to the same immigration requirements as non-EU nationals, meaning they need to apply under the UK’s point-based immigration system for work, study, or other visas.
Key Changes for Future EU Migrants:
EU citizens coming to the UK to work now need to have a job offer from an approved sponsor, meet the skill and salary threshold, and speak English to a certain standard.
For students, applying for a Student visa requires a confirmed place at an approved institution, sufficient English language skills, and proof of financial means.
For Britons Living in the EU
Brexit has also affected UK nationals residing in or wishing to move to EU countries, and the work of the best immigration lawyers in the UK. The rights of UK citizens living in the EU are now determined by the Withdrawal Agreement and vary by country, depending on each nation’s implementation of the agreement.
Key Considerations for Britons Abroad:
UK nationals who were legally resident in an EU country before 31 December 2020 are generally protected by the Withdrawal Agreement, allowing them to continue living, working, and accessing social benefits as before.
Moving forward, UK nationals wishing to move to an EU country are subject to that country’s immigration rules for third-country nationals, which can include requirements for visas, work permits, and residency qualifications and may require an immigration lawyer for UK.
Navigating this new landscape requires a clear understanding of the revised rules and regulations. For EU citizens and their families in the UK, securing status under the EU Settlement Scheme is crucial.