Let's get started...
How Does Brexit Affect Immigration?
When the UK voted to leave the European Union (EU) in the 2016 Brexit referendum, one of the biggest topics of debate was immigration. As a member of the EU, the UK followed the principle of free movement, allowing citizens of EU countries to live, work, and study in the UK without a visa. After Brexit, the rules around immigration changed significantly, impacting not only people moving to and from the UK but also the lives of British citizens, including young people.
In this article, well explore how Brexit has affected immigration, what it means for young people in the UK, and practical ways to navigate these changes. Whether you're considering future travel, education, or work opportunities, understanding the new rules is key to making informed decisions.
What Is Immigration?
Immigration refers to the process of people moving from one country to another to live, work, study, or join family members. Before Brexit, the UK was part of the EUs single market, which allowed free movement of people between member states. This meant that EU citizens could come to the UK without needing a visa, and UK citizens could do the same in EU countries.
However, Brexit ended free movement. The UK introduced a new points-based immigration system that applies to all non-UK citizens, including those from the EU. This system aims to control who can enter the country based on factors such as skills, job offers, and salary levels.
How Did Brexit Change Immigration Rules?
The UKs departure from the EU has led to several major changes in immigration rules:
1. End of Free Movement
Before Brexit, EU citizens could move to the UK without restrictions. After Brexit, EU citizens now need to meet the same requirements as people from non-EU countries. This includes applying for visas if they want to live, work, or study in the UK.
2. Points-Based System
The UKs new points-based immigration system evaluates applicants based on criteria such as:
- Having a job offer from an approved UK employer.
- Meeting a minimum salary threshold (usually 26,200 per year).
- Speaking English at a required level.
- Having qualifications or skills that are in demand.
This system applies to both EU and non-EU citizens and is designed to prioritise skilled workers.
3. EU Settlement Scheme
EU citizens already living in the UK before the end of the Brexit transition period (31 December 2020) could apply to the EU Settlement Scheme. This scheme allowed them to stay in the UK and retain their rights to live, work, and access healthcare and education.
4. Changes to Student Visas
EU students now need to apply for a student visa to study in the UK. This involves paying visa fees and meeting certain requirements, such as proving financial stability and English language skills. Similarly, UK students who want to study in EU countries may face new visa requirements.
5. Travel Restrictions
British citizens can no longer use freedom of movement to live or work in EU countries without a visa. Short trips for tourism or business (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) are still allowed without a visa, but living or working in the EU now requires additional paperwork and approvals.
Real-Life Impact on Young People
These changes in immigration rules have far-reaching consequences for young people in the UK. Here's how they might affect your life:
1. Education Opportunities
Before Brexit, UK students could easily study in EU countries under the Erasmus programme, which offered funding and support for exchange programmes. After Brexit, the UK left Erasmus and replaced it with the Turing Scheme. While the Turing Scheme still supports international study, it doesn't provide the same access to EU universities or guarantee reciprocal arrangements for EU students coming to the UK.
If you're considering studying abroad in the EU, you may now need to apply for a visa and pay higher tuition fees, as UK students are no longer considered home students in EU countries.
2. Work Opportunities
For young people interested in working abroad, Brexit has created additional barriers. If you want to work in an EU country, you'll likely need a visa, a job offer, and proof of qualifications. This makes it more complicated to explore career opportunities in Europe compared to before Brexit.
3. Family and Community Impact
Many young people in the UK have friends or family members who are EU citizens. The new immigration rules may make it harder for them to move to the UK or for you to visit them in Europe. This could lead to feelings of separation and uncertainty.
4. Travel and Holidays
Although short trips to the EU don't require a visa, there are new restrictions to consider. For example, you need at least six months of validity on your passport, and there may be limits on healthcare coverage and mobile roaming charges.
5. Diversity and Culture
Immigration has brought diversity and cultural exchange to the UK, enriching schools, communities, and workplaces. Changes to immigration rules may affect the diversity of people in your community, which could influence your experiences and perspectives as a young person.
Practical Strategies for Dealing with the Impact
If you're a teenager navigating these changes, here are some practical strategies to help you adapt and make the most of your opportunities:
1. Research Study and Work Opportunities
If you're considering studying or working abroad, take time to research the new requirements. Look into visa processes, costs, and any scholarships or support available. Websites like GOV.UK and Erasmus+ can provide useful information.
2. Plan Ahead for Travel
If you're travelling to the EU, check the latest rules on passports, healthcare, and mobile roaming. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance and understand how long you can stay without a visa.
3. Stay Informed About Your Rights
If you or your family are affected by immigration changes, learn about your rights and options. For example, EU citizens living in the UK should ensure they've applied for the EU Settlement Scheme. If you're unsure about your status, seek advice from trusted organisations or legal experts.
4. Build International Connections
Even with new restrictions, it's still possible to connect with people from other countries. Consider joining international programmes, online communities, or exchange schemes to broaden your horizons and build friendships across borders.
5. Talk About Your Concerns
If you're feeling uncertain or worried about how Brexit and immigration changes affect you, talk to someone you trust, such as a teacher, parent, or school counsellor. Sharing your concerns can help you find support and solutions.
6. Celebrate Diversity
Despite the changes, the UK remains a diverse and multicultural society. Embrace opportunities to learn about different cultures and celebrate the contributions of immigrants to your community.
Final Thoughts
Brexit has brought significant changes to immigration rules, affecting how people move between the UK and the EU. For young people, these changes can impact education, work, travel, and relationships with friends and family. While the new rules present challenges, they also offer opportunities to adapt, learn, and explore the world in new ways. By staying informed, planning ahead, and embracing cultural diversity, you can navigate these changes and create a positive future for yourself and your community.
How are you feeling?
It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.
If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:
- Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
- NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
- The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
- SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
- Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)
*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.
