The idea that Brexit stopped people moving to Europe is not supported by the data, even without citizenship.
Moving to Europe is perfectly possible after Brexit, just bear in mind that people and goods are treated differently.
Unlike schemes which allow a uniform movement of goods across the EU after entry, residence is subject to the rules of individual countries. There are similarities but also a need to understand the differences.
The UK government website offers useful guides, such as one on living in France. Liaising with overseas authorities will also make sense and checking details on the appropriate consulate website in London.
Alongside changes in individual countries, we wish to cover the overall position, following the end of the transition period on 1st January 2021.
Post Brexit Reality
British nationals no longer have an automatic right to live and work in the EU. The Withdrawal Agreement does preserve a few rights but to a fair degree, we are in the same position as a third country anywhere on the globe.
If you are a British national living in Europe before 1st January 2021, you are covered by the Withdrawal Agreement. This protects your rights, as long as you were working, studying, financing yourself or had an existing right to live in the EU.
Whilst normally granted, this is not guaranteed, although most British nationals living in the EU have been able to register as permanent residents.
UK citizens wishing to move to the EU going forward have no automatic right to live in the EU. They are likely to need to apply for a visa and demonstrate they have the right to live, or work in a particular EU country.
Checking The Detail
Taking the extra steps to start a new life in the EU means researching requirements in the country you choose. A few countries are looking at individual, reciprocal agreements with the UK but the principle of EU first is important to them.
Wherever you go, demonstrating the ability to support yourself will matter. If this is through work, then having a job organised is valuable and in some cases essential. Getting qualifications recognised by your new country may be part of this.
Moving permanently is likely to be a two, or three stage process. Life in Spain, or Italy starts with a temporary visa of varying lengths, in France the initial stay is granted for 12 months, in Germany just 90 days before you must apply for a longer stay.
Once longer residence is granted, this may be for a set period, rather than permanent, 5 years is common. Assuming all progresses as expected, permanent residence may then be granted if you wish to stay.
There are oddities, in Italy even with a long stay visa, you need to register as a resident within 8 working days and have an employer arrange a work permit. In all EU countries, your passport needs to be valid for 6 months or more before travelling.
Monitoring Change
The variable position with Covid-19 can have an effect on moving to an EU country, as could ongoing negotiations. Keeping in touch with the news and with information on government websites makes sense.
If you are taking possessions with you, being aware of freight and customs changes is important, along with a need to pack and label carefully. We can advise on this, or pack for you, in an appropriate way for navigating customs.
If you are taking pets, or vehicles, this is likely to bring new requirements. Where your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) has ended, or is running out, a UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC) will be needed.
The points above also apply to non EU single market countries, such as Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland. About the only exception to change is Ireland, which you can freely move to under Common Travel Area arrangements.
Choosing a remover who is used to carrying out international removals should also help you to keep informed. Their knowledge can stop the process becoming a headache, so you enjoy the home of your choice, wherever this may be.
