Most EU citizens planning to move to the UK had the immigration goal posts moved on 31st December – the end of the Brexit transition period. Find out how this new playing field will impact your relocation to London.
Moving to London as a European National
A historic deal on the UK’s future trading and security relationship with the European Union was finally struck on Christmas Eve, a week before the end of the Brexit transition period. During the final stages of this historic haggle, we were made acutely aware of what it all means for the future of fishing in British waters – and several other seemingly innocuous sticking points.
What we did not hear much about, however, was how the end of the transition period was about to reshape the landscape for EU citizens planning to relocate to London?
Here is a quick recap of the key issues that you will have to consider at the start of your relocation to London and the Uk as a European National.
1. What this means for European citizens moving to London and the UK
- From 11 pm on 31 December 2020, a new Immigration Act ended the freedom of movement of all EU citizens in the UK without registered residence.
- The act enables the UK to evaluate applications to work within its borders according to each applicant’s skills and the contribution they can make – not their country of origin.
- The UK has moved to a new points-based immigration system – reversing decades of free movement as a member of the EU.
- Those wanting to come and work in the UK must apply for permission first, before being awarded points according to their skill level in their particular field, their ability to speak English, and the salary they have been offered.
- Applicants must accumulate the necessary number of points to come to work and live in the UK.
- The UK government plans to introduce special schemes to enable more scientists, academics, investors, entrepreneurs, and health and care workers to come to the UK easily.
- Under the Immigration Act, all EU nationals wanting to study in the UK must gain a place at a higher education institution in the UK first, before applying for a student visa – which is part of the points-based system.
2. What this means for European citizens already in London and the UK
- Irish nationals can continue living in the UK after the transition deadline.
- Anyone from the rest of the EU, EEA countries and Switzerland who moved to the UK before 31 December must apply for the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021.
3. Get help from the experts (optional)
The end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December saw the immigration process for EU citizens moving to London change completely overnight.
Working in partnership with a network of reputable immigration advisors, Simply London can help you successfully navigate this new process.
Once this vital element of the relocation is organised, you can even benefit from our specialist home, school and settling-in services as well.
Get in touch to find out more!
Note – This article does not constitute legal or immigration advice and you should always consult a qualified professional before undertaking any applications. The information in this article is based solely on our understanding as at the date of the article. Government legislation can change at any time.