Update: Free movement post-Brexit

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the Brexit update? In the last couple of days, news outlets have reported on the immediate end of free movement on Oct. 31 in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

What does the news mean? At the moment it is not clear whether the comments made by the Home Secretary represent a change in the underlying government policy; we note that no official legal changes have been announced.

Analysis & Comments:  While awaiting further news, companies may want to prepare for changes to the legal position on short notice. Should work visas be required for business travel between the U.K. and the EU (in both directions) beginning Nov. 1, 2019, companies should make it a priority to assess which employees will be moving for work between the U.K. and the EU immediately after Oct. 31.

Beyond this, businesses may want to collect more details regarding employees’ roles, salaries and period of assignment/move, as these will be factors that will potentially impact the ability to secure a work permit in time for planned moves. If individuals are planning to relocate in the near future, employers should consider whether it is possible to bring dates forward before Oct. 31 to enable individuals to relocate under the free movement rules currently in place.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2019. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.