Introduction

The Brexit referendum in 2016 marked a significant turning point for the United Kingdom’s relationship with the European Union (EU). One of the key areas affected by this decision was immigration. This article aims to provide a comprehensive explanation of the changes in immigration policies that occurred as a result of Brexit, including the new rules for EU citizens and British nationals.

Background

Before the referendum, the UK was part of the EU’s single market, which allowed for free movement of people between member states. This meant that EU citizens had the right to live, work, and study in the UK, and vice versa. However, with the UK’s decision to leave the EU, these arrangements were set to change.

Transition Period

Following the referendum, a transition period was agreed upon, which lasted until December 31, 2020. During this period, the existing rights of EU citizens in the UK and British nationals in the EU remained largely unchanged. However, the UK was no longer bound by EU law, which paved the way for new immigration policies.

New Immigration Rules for EU Citizens

  1. Settled Status: EU citizens who had been resident in the UK for at least five years were eligible to apply for “Settled Status.” This granted them the right to live, work, and study in the UK indefinitely. Those who had lived in the UK for less than five years could apply for “Pre-Settled Status.”

  2. Immigration Health Surcharge: EU citizens applying for Settled or Pre-Settled Status were required to pay an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which covered healthcare costs during their stay in the UK.

  3. Right to Work: EU citizens who had applied for Settled or Pre-Settled Status had the right to work in the UK without a visa.

  4. Family Members: Family members of EU citizens were also eligible to apply for Settled or Pre-Settled Status, provided they were living at the same address and had been doing so for at least six months.

New Immigration Rules for British Nationals

  1. Settled Status for EU Citizens: British nationals living in the EU were eligible to apply for “Settled Status” or “Pre-Settled Status” in the UK, which gave them the right to reside, work, and study in the EU member state they were living in.

  2. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): British nationals were no longer eligible for an EHIC, which covered healthcare costs in EU countries. Instead, they had to apply for a new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).

  3. Visa Requirements: British nationals traveling to the EU for short stays were required to apply for a visa in some cases, depending on the country and the purpose of their visit.

Changes in Work Permit Requirements

  1. Skill Level: The UK government introduced a points-based immigration system that prioritized skilled workers. Applicants had to meet certain criteria, such as having a job offer from a UK employer, a minimum salary threshold, and specific qualifications.

  2. Tiers: The points-based system was divided into several tiers, including Tier 1 (for highly skilled individuals), Tier 2 (for skilled workers with job offers), and Tier 5 (for temporary workers).

  3. Spousal and Dependent Work Rights: Under the new system, spouses and dependents of Tier 2 and Tier 5 visa holders were eligible to work in the UK.

Challenges and Impacts

  1. Administrative Burden: The new immigration rules introduced a significant administrative burden for both EU citizens and British nationals, with long processing times and complex application procedures.

  2. Economic Impact: Some experts believe that the new immigration policies could have a negative impact on the UK’s economy by reducing the pool of skilled workers and discouraging EU citizens from moving to the UK.

  3. Social Impact: There are concerns that the new immigration rules could create social divisions, particularly among EU citizens living in the UK.

Conclusion

Brexit has had a profound impact on immigration policies in the UK and the EU. While the transition period provided a sense of continuity, the new rules have introduced a range of challenges and uncertainties for both EU citizens and British nationals. As the UK continues to navigate the post-Brexit landscape, it remains to be seen how these changes will unfold and what long-term implications they will have on immigration and social dynamics.