Hiring EU citizens in the UK

The rules for hiring EU citizens in the UK are changing from the 1 January 2021. If you employ people from overseas, you’ll need to get ready for the new points-based immigration system, which considers job, salary and language. From the 1 January 2021, EU citizens arriving in the UK to work will need to get a visa in advance.

Businesses need to apply to be a licensed sponsor to hire eligible people from outside of the UK. This does not apply to Irish citizens. The Government has provided guidance on all the actions you need to take.

Workforce checklist

The British Chambers of Commerce has created a checklist on workforce considerations, including business travel to and from the EU, recognition of professional qualifications and the EU settlement scheme.

EU settlement scheme (settled and pre-settled)

Do you currently employee EU, EEA and Swiss citizens within your business? They will need to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme along with their family members to continue to live, work and study in the UK. The deadline to apply is 30 June 2021. They can apply here.