The Home Office has announced that there will be a new frontier worker permit as part of the UK’s new post-Brexit immigration system. The Immigration Rules are currently going through significant changes in order to accommodate EU and EEA nationals as the Brexit transitional phase is drawing to an end. Therefore, frontier workers will need to be aware of the applicable changes otherwise they will face issues upon entering the UK in the future. Our Immigration Solicitors in London are regularly updated on recent changes in legislation and are happy to arrange a consultation in order to discuss how this may affect potential applicants.
What is a frontier worker UK?
A frontier worker is an EU, EEA or Swiss national who works in the UK as someone who is employed or self-employed; however, they live in another country and not in the UK. From now until 1 July 2021, Frontier Workers can continue entering the UK as usual, using their valid passport or national identity card. Irish nationals will not be affected by any changes after 1 January 2021.
What is the new frontier worker permit?
Over the next few months, the UK Government will launch the new frontier worker permit scheme. This will enable frontier workers to continue to work in the UK after Brexit. Applications will be online and free of charge. Applicants may apply both from within and outside the UK. The following may also apply to secure their frontier worker status once the new scheme launches if they have previously been a frontier worker and:
- They are temporarily unable to work because of an illness or accident;
- They were working in the UK but are now involuntarily unemployed, and are looking for work in the UK;
- They are in vocational training while involuntarily unemployed;
- They are in vocational training while unemployed, and the training is related to the work they carried out in your previous work;
- They are temporarily unable to work as a result of pregnancy or childbirth; and
- They on maternity or paternity leave, and will return to their previous employment, or find another job, at the end of this period.
Do EU citizens have the right to work in the UK?
Yes, under EU law EU and EEA nationals have the right to work in the UK without a specific work visa; as part of the free movement of persons. During the Brexit transitional period, EU and EEA nationals can continue to enter and be in the UK for work; however, they will need to apply under the EU Settlement Scheme for either Settled or Pre-Settled Status (depending on how long they have been in the UK) in order to continue to live and work in the UK post-Brexit. The deadline to apply under the EU Settlement Scheme is 30 June 2021 as long as they have arrived in the UK by 31 December 2020. Failure to apply under the Scheme or for any other visa type will result in removal action.
Will EU citizens need visa for UK?
Yes, after 30 June 2021, EU and EEA nationals will need to apply for a visa in order to come to the UK in order to work and study for example, as non-EEA nationals must do currently. The UK’s immigration system is currently being reformed in order to incorporate EU and EEA nationals. The Home Office has recently announced the new Student Visa routes to replace the current Tier 4 route which is only for non-EEA nationals. Further updates to the UK’s immigration are expected to be announced over the next few months.
How do I apply for settled status?
Applications for settled status can be completed online. Applicants must prove their identity and length of residence in the UK. In certain cases, the Home Office may require more information and evidence from the Applicant before granting either Settled or Pre-Settled Status, such as non-EEA family members will also have to prove their relationship to their EU or EEA national sponsor.
Using our Immigration Solicitors in London for advice on the new Frontier Worker Permit
Legal representatives, such as our specialist immigration and visa law firm, are qualified to advise you on immigration law and your immigration status. It is possible to instruct an immigration and visa legal representative to submit an application to the Home Office.
Caseworkers at the Home Office are trained to reject applications which are improperly prepared, for example by failing to provide the correct supporting evidence. In order to ensure your application succeeds, all necessary documents must be provided.
This can be a significant administrative task and you will need to submit the correct documentary evidence. The UK’s Immigration Rules are complex and a legal representative can help ensure that your application meets the relevant rules.
Successful applications from EU nationals with our Immigration Solicitors in London
Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest. We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of your immigration status and the merit of your application before your matter even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation and submission of your application and ensure that you meet all the requirements of the relevant rules.
We are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients. LEXVISA is just minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.
Preparation is the key to successful applications under the Immigration Rules. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation to discuss your application.
Contact our London immigration solicitors on 02030110276 or complete our contact form.