The United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union, commonly known as Brexit, has had far-reaching implications for UK citizens living in EU countries. The impact of Brexit on UK expats in the EU has been significant, with key concerns ranging from residency rights to healthcare access and pension entitlements. This article will delve into the effects of Brexit on UK expats, highlighting the key concerns and how they have been addressed.
Residency Rights and Freedom of Movement
One of the most immediate impacts of Brexit on UK expats in the EU has been the change in residency rights and freedom of movement. Prior to Brexit, UK citizens could live, work, and study in any EU country without needing a visa. However, with the UK’s departure from the EU, this is no longer the case.
- UK citizens who were legally residing in an EU country before December 31, 2020, are generally allowed to continue living there. However, they may need to apply for a new residence status.
- UK citizens who move to an EU country after December 31, 2020, will be subject to the immigration rules of that country. This could involve applying for a visa or work permit.
The loss of freedom of movement has also affected UK expats’ ability to move freely between EU countries. For example, a UK citizen living in Spain may now face restrictions if they want to work in France.
Access to Healthcare
Access to healthcare is another key concern for UK expats in the EU post-Brexit. Prior to Brexit, UK citizens could use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access healthcare in any EU country. However, the situation has changed following Brexit.
- UK citizens who were living in an EU country before December 31, 2020, can continue to use their EHIC until it expires. After that, they may be eligible for a new UK-issued EHIC or a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).
- UK citizens who move to an EU country after December 31, 2020, will not be eligible for an EHIC or GHIC. They will need to ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage.
Pension Entitlements
Another significant impact of Brexit on UK expats in the EU relates to pension entitlements. Prior to Brexit, UK state pensions were uprated each year for UK citizens living in the EU. This means that the pension amount increased each year in line with either the rate of inflation, the average percentage growth in wages in Great Britain, or 2.5%, whichever is the highest.
- The UK government has confirmed that it will continue to uprate state pensions for UK citizens living in the EU for the next three years. However, it is unclear what will happen after that.
- UK citizens who move to an EU country after December 31, 2020, may not have their state pensions uprated.
Impact on Employment and Business
Brexit has also had an impact on employment and business opportunities for UK expats in the EU. The loss of freedom of movement has made it more difficult for UK citizens to work in EU countries. In addition, changes to the recognition of professional qualifications have affected certain sectors.
- UK citizens who were living and working in an EU country before December 31, 2020, can generally continue to do so. However, they may face restrictions if they want to work in a different EU country.
- UK citizens who move to an EU country after December 31, 2020, will need to comply with the immigration rules of that country. This could involve applying for a work permit.
- UK citizens who run a business in an EU country may also face new challenges, such as changes to VAT rules and increased bureaucracy.
Conclusion
The impact of Brexit on UK expats in the EU has been significant and wide-ranging. While some of the key concerns have been addressed, many uncertainties remain. It is crucial for UK citizens living in or planning to move to an EU country to stay informed about the latest developments and seek professional advice if necessary.
