Since the UK left the European Union, freedom of movement no longer applies. EU and EEA nationals now face new immigration rules when coming to the UK to work, live, or study. If you’re from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, this article outlines your current options for staying or moving to the UK legally.
1. The End of Free Movement
🧳 On 1 January 2021, the UK officially ended the free movement rights for EU/EEA citizens. This means:
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You now require a visa for most purposes (work, study, family reunion)
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Border checks apply
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You must meet UK immigration rules like everyone else outside the UK
2. The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
🏠 If you were living in the UK before 31 December 2020, you could apply for:
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Pre-Settled Status: Temporary residence (5 years)
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Settled Status: Permanent residence after 5 years of continuous stay
🕒 The deadline to apply was 30 June 2021, but late applications are still accepted in some cases—especially for children or those with valid reasons for delay.
3. Visa Options After Brexit
📄 EU/EEA nationals now need a visa for almost every stay beyond 6 months. Main routes include:
Skilled Worker Visa
🏢 For EU citizens with a job offer from a UK sponsor.
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Salary thresholds apply (£26,200/year or £10.75/hour)
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English proficiency required
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5-year route to settlement
Student Visa
🎓 For those studying at a UK institution.
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Must show course acceptance, financial means, and English level
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Work limited during studies
Family Visas
👪 Join family members in the UK—spouse, partner, children, or dependent parents.
Global Talent Visa
🌍 For EU/EEA nationals with exceptional skill in tech, arts, science, or academia.
Frontier Worker Permit
🛂 If you live in the EU but work in the UK—available if employed in the UK before 31 Dec 2020 and continue to work here.
4. Short-Term Visits
✈️ EU citizens can still enter the UK visa-free for up to 6 months as tourists or visitors, but:
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You cannot work or study
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Border officials may ask for return tickets and funds
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Entry is not guaranteed
5. Right to Work & Rent
📋 Post-Brexit, employers and landlords must verify your right to work or rent.
You’ll need to prove your immigration status via:
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A visa or BRP card
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Digital status from the EUSS
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Frontier Worker permit
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Don’t assume you can work or live in the UK just by being an EU citizen. Avoid these errors:
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Not applying for EUSS when eligible
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Entering without a visa for employment
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Failing to prove legal status to employers or landlords
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Overstaying visitor permissions
🌟 Final Thoughts
Although Brexit changed the rules, EU/EEA citizens still have viable immigration routes to live, work, or join family in the UK. Understanding the new framework and acting proactively is key to avoiding legal issues or refusals.
📞 Contact Borderless Lawyers
If you’re an EU or EEA citizen unsure of your rights or immigration path in the UK, our expert team can help. From late EUSS applications to work or family visas, contact Borderless Lawyers today for reliable guidance and tailored support.