Brexit: Update on future rights of EU citizens in the UK

In an update to our Be Aware article of 12 July 2017, Government publishes proposals for EU nationals, the UK and the EU have just concluded the latest round of their Brexit negotiations which will be of interest to employers who are monitoring developments as part of a communications strategy for keeping EU nationals in their workforce informed of the latest position.

In this latest round of negotiations, the Home Office has reported that progress has been made in relation to the rights of EU citizens living in the UK and UK nationals in the EU.  In particular, the UK has agreed to protect the rights to reciprocal healthcare, including European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) for EU citizens in the UK and UK nationals in the EU who are present on the day of exit.  The UK and EU have also agreed to protect the rights of some cross border workers and are also said to be nearing a deal on preserving professionals’ rights to practise after Brexit.

Many issues remain outstanding, however. These include agreement on the rights of EU national posted workers, some aspects relating to permanent residence including the need to apply for a new residence document, and the rights of future family members.  This table highlights progress to August 2017.

The next round of negotiations is due later in September 2017.  In the meantime, the Home Office’s webpages, Status of EU citizens in the UK: What you need to know hold the latest information.