by 
With 52% , the United Kingdom has stepped out of the European Union. It feels like little has changed since the Brexit. As both sides agreed that many things would stay the same for 12 months, things have been settled since the 31st of December.
Why do we need a Brexit deal?
Europe and the UK always had to agree new rules for how to live, work and trade together. While the UK was in Europe, companies could buy and sell goods across Europe borders without paying taxes. If there is no trade deal, businesses will have to start paying these taxes, which could make things more expensive. The same goes for deals on goods on the UK would like one on services, which are a big part of its economy. This isn’t part of the talks, but separate agreements on things like banking are still possible. Agreements on areas like safety, medicine and the sharing of information about security threats are also important.
Therefore it was time for a Brexit deal which is fully agreed on the 31st of December.
What has changed on the 31st of December?
Deal of no deal, the way people live and work will be different. But what will be different?
- People planning to move between the UK and Europe to live, work, or retire will no longer be automatically allowed to do so
- The UK will apply a point-based immigration system to European citizens
- The travel rules will change. Importantly is checking if your passport is still valid. Moreover having a good health insurance and the right driving documents will allow you to enter the country.
- The UK will no longer make such big annual payments towards European budget
- Arrivals from the UK will stand in a different queue at passport control in European countries
- Business trading with Europe will face a lot more paperwork
Can we still travel to the UK?
Normally I would say ‘yes’! Unfortunately these are weird times.. People from outside the UK aren’t able to travel to the UK currently. This is due to a mutated COVID-19 virus that’s going across the island.
Luckily, after the crisis, Irish citizen will continue to be able to enter and live in the UK as they do now.
People from Europe and swiss will continue to be able to travel to the UK for holidays or short trips without needing a visa. Important is to show correct documents at the border.
- An EU Settlement Scheme family permit
- A UK-issued EEA family permit
- A UK-issued biometric residence card
If you aren’t a member of the EU or swiss, than you need a valid national passport, and one of the following things.
Can English people still travel to Europe?
Yes! British citizen will not need a visa when travelling to Europe. This gives British citizens the right to travel to Europe after the transition period for up to 90 days without a visa within any 180-day period. European border guards may ask people traveling from the UK for additional information including the duration and purpose of their stay. Passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of the trip. They will also need a valid travel insurance.
