Brexit: be prepared and avoid the uncertainty surrounding the “divorce”.

The UK is currently going through the 11 month transition period, until 31 December 2020. This means that Free Movement of People continues in both directions during this period.

The EU Settlement Scheme has been established for EEA and Swiss Nationals. They and their family members in the UK not yet registered should register under the scheme to preserve their status after the “divorce” has been fully implemented. To date more than 3.6 million people have applied.

Applications under the EUSS scheme must be made by 30 June 2021 by eligible people who arrive by 31 December 2020.

It must be highlighted that the situation for family members requires separate advice.

The EEA and Swiss nationals can apply for Pre-Settled Status (limited leave to remain) if they have been living in the UK less than 5 years.

After 5 years as a Qualified Person in the UK, an application for Settled Status can be submitted.

Both applications can be completed using an android or iPhone and supporting documentation can be uploaded online.

People can continue to make their travel plans with confidence that things won’t change until at least the end of 2020.

From 1 January 2021, new EU arrivals into the UK are expected to fall under the new immigration Skills-Based System and will require a work visa to live and work in the UK.

Therefore, our current recommendation is: “do not wait”.

If you are an EU National thinking of coming to live and work in the UK, come now, visa free and use the new EUSS scheme to make your application and secure your status in the country.

At Redfern Legal, a dedicated team of Lawyers can help you and your organisation to walk safely through the Brexit landscape.

Alessia Zanni