Brexit News, Member News

Brexit Update: The Potential Implications of the “End of Free Movement”

By Claire D. Nilson & Hodon Anastasi | FTI Consulting 

Recent announcements from the Home Office could potentially alter the previously suggested plans for immigrants in the U.K after Brexit.

The previous proposal would have allowed EU citizens residing in the U.K. to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme until 31 December 2020. Any EU citizens who attempted to move to the U.K in the upcoming Brexit transition period (1 November 2019-31 December 2020) would have registered for the European Temporary Leave to Remain, a scheme that permitted work and study for up to 36 months.

Based on recent announcements, however, these options may be subject to change. The update from this past week suggests that there may be an “end of free movement.” If there is a ‘no-deal’ Brexit and free movement between U.K. and EU borders ends on the day of Brexit, then the European Temporary Leave to Remain may be eradicated. If this were to happen, as yet it is unknown what immigration process will be in place from 1 November.

This issue is pending, and more announcements will be made as the U.K.’s new direction becomes clearer.

Compliments of FTI Consulting, a member of the EACCNY