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Engaging EU nationals post-Brexit

Businesses have certainly had a lot to contend with this year, and coming around fast is the end of the Brexit transition period at the end of December.

You’ll surely have seen the Government’s media push to help businesses and individuals prepare, but it can be quite difficult to wade through the guidance and get to what is relevant for you.

Know what’s happening, when

If you are engaging EU nationals (excluding Irish nationals), here’s a simple timeline of the changes you need to be aware of coming into 2021.

Up to 31st December 2020

The UK left the EU on 31st January 2020 and entered the transition period – a period agreed in the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement in which the UK is no longer a member of the EU but is still subject to its rules. This transition period ends on 31st December 2020, and up until then, all current right to work rules apply.

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens who have arrived in the UK before the 1st January 2021 will need to apply to join the EU Settlement Scheme, Pre-Settlement Scheme, Citizenship or a Visa in order to continue to live and work in the UK. 

From 1st January 2021

 From the 1st January 2021 a new immigration system will apply in the UK which will affect all EU citizens (excluding Irish citizens) arriving in the UK. From this date any new arrivals will need to ensure they have a visa in advance. However, they have no legal obligation to provide a copy at this stage. 

From 30th June 2021

From the 30th June 2021 the new Home Office requirements are in force. From this date the Employer will have a responsibility to ensure that the worker has the appropriate Right to Work in the UK and retain evidence.

 The Employer could take the following documentation as evidence;

·        Proof of settled status

·        Visa within an active EU Passport

Download our guide

As at any time of change, we always seek to support and reassure our agencies and contractors as much as possible.

We have produced a short guide which simplifies the Government’s guidance on Employment responsibilities going forward, if you are engaging EU nationals.

This also covers the steps Liquid Friday are taking to ensure that you and your supply chain remains compliant and protected. 

Click the link below to download the free guide or if you are concerned about what these changes will entail, please get in touch with the team.