Getting ready for the EU Transition in Warwickshire

Although the EU Transition has not been at the forefront of people’s minds over the last nine months, the date for the UK’s exit has not changed. Although time is running out, it is not too late for residents or businesses to get ready for the EU Exit on the 31 December.

Here are some things to think about:

For Warwickshire Businesses

Staff working in the EU

Businesses that have staff working between the UK and EU after 31 December 2020 may need a visa or work permit. To find out more, visit: https://www.gov.uk/visit-europe-1-january-2021/business-travel-extra-requirements

Businesses hiring from the EU

Free movement is ending and the UK is introducing a new points-based immigration system.

The way businesses hire from the EU is changing. From 1 January 2021, if you want to hire anyone from outside the UK you must be a Home Office licenced sponsor. This includes recruiting people from the EU.

Anyone coming to the UK to work will need a job offer from a licenced sponsor in advance and will need to meet certain skills and salary criteria.

Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-points-based-immigration-system-employer-information/the-uks-points-based-immigration-system-an-introduction-for-employers

Businesses that transfer data between the UK and the EU

Businesses will need to prepare for new rules around personal data. Anyone receiving personal data from the EU for business use may need to take action on data protection. Find out more at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/using-personal-data-in-your-business-or-other-organisation-after-the-transition-period

Businesses that import and export goods

To continue to trade with the EU after 31 December 2020, businesses will need to follow new rules for exporting, including changes to processes and licensing. To find out more, visit: www.GOV.UK/transition

Businesses that deliver services between the UK and he EU

Businesses must ensure that their staff are able to continue to practise and provide services to clients in the UK after 31 December 2020 by ensuring their professional qualification(s) are recognised by their professional body in the UK. Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/get-your-eea-qualification-recognised-in-the-uk-from-1-january-2021

For Warwickshire Residents

The biggest change for residents will be if they are travelling to European Countries after 31 December 2020.

From 1 January 2021 there will be new rules to travel to Europe. Things people may need to do before travelling include:

• Checking the validity of their passport.
• Getting travel insurance that covers their healthcare.
• Checking that they have the right driving documents.
• Organising pet travel – pet owners should contact their vet at least four months before departure.
• Checking roaming policies with mobile phone providers before travelling. 

For EU Citizens living in Warwickshire

Any EU, EEA or Swiss citizen living in Warwickshire who wishes to go on staying in the UK when it leaves the European Union on the 31 of December, will need to apply for Settled Status.

Time is running out, don’t delay, apply today: https://www.gov.uk/staying-uk-eu-citizen

Cllr Peter Butlin, Deputy Leader of Warwickshire County Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property, said: “With the challenges posed by the COVID-19 Pandemic for both our residents and our businesses, I am sure that the UK’s transition from the European Union has not been at the forefront of people’s minds. This said, there are things that people need to be aware of and businesses need to be ready for the UK’s exit on 31 December 2020.

“I would urge all our residents and businesses to visit the www.Gov.uk/transition website and find out what they need to do before it is too late.”

For the most up-to-date information about the EU Transition in Warwickshire, visit: https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/brexit