Brexit is continuing to dominate the headlines and as 31 October nears we understand that a number of our members have concerns regarding the implications for them post-Brexit.
We have raised concerns regarding the impact of Brexit on healthcare services with the government and we will continue to represent and raise the concerns of our EU Members and Fellows working within the UK. It is still unclear whether or not the UK will leave the EU with a deal or not. In the event of a no deal scenario there are a number of issues you may be concerned about. The information below concerns the immigration status of EU.
EU Settled Status Scheme
If you’re an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you and your family can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021. If your application is successful, you’ll get either settled or pre-settled status. You can apply now and the deadline is 30 June 2021, although we recommend you apply as soon as possible. The scheme is free of charge.
European Temporary Leave to Remain
This option will be available if the UK leaves the EU without a deal. It provides EU citizens moving to the UK after 31 October 2019 the opportunity to apply for 36-month temporary immigration status. Applications will be free and EU citizens will not have to make special arrangements in advance of arriving in the UK.
EU citizens who move to the UK after Brexit and who do not apply for Euro TLR will need to leave the UK by 31 December 2020 unless they have applied for and obtained a UK immigration status under the UK’s new points-based immigration system.
Points Based Immigration
It has been announced that from January 2021 a new, Australian points-based immigration system will be in place. The Migration Advisory Committee will be reviewing similar schemes to advise on what this will look like. Individuals who move to the UK after Brexit and don’t have temporary leave to remain will be required to apply to these scheme.
Mutual Recognition of Professional Qualifications
RCSEd is concerned about the future recognition of overseas EU professional qualifications which are currently recognised within the UK.
Currently, an EEA qualified doctor currently working in the UK will continue to have their medical qualifications recognised and will continue to be registered by the GMC in a no deal Brexit scenario.
Most EU doctors entering UK post Brexit will have their qualifications recognised, however, this may not apply to all doctors from all countries. For detailed advice on your situation please contact the GMC.
It is important to note that policies are still changing and we will keep members up to date on Brexit updates in the coming days and weeks.