The UK`s Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) with the European Union (EU) has been in effect since January 1, 2021. One of the key areas covered by the TCA is immigration, and it has several implications for UK businesses, EU citizens, and non-EU citizens.
EU Citizens
The TCA provides for visa-free travel for short stays (up to 90 days) for EU citizens. However, those who wish to stay for longer periods or work in the UK will need to apply for a visa. The TCA sets out specific rules for the recognition of qualifications, which will be helpful for EU citizens working in the UK. For example, the TCA provides for the mutual recognition of professional qualifications in certain sectors such as engineering and architecture.
UK Businesses
The TCA has implications for UK businesses that employ EU citizens or depend on EU workers. The TCA allows for the mobility of temporary workers in certain sectors such as healthcare and transport. However, UK businesses will need to ensure that they comply with the TCA`s rules on the recruitment of EU workers. The TCA also provides for the recognition of professional qualifications, which will be important for UK businesses that employ EU citizens with specific skills.
Non-EU Citizens
The TCA also has implications for non-EU citizens who want to work in the UK. The TCA does not affect the UK`s points-based immigration system, which applies to non-EU citizens. Non-EU citizens who wish to work in the UK will need to meet the UK`s immigration requirements and obtain a visa. The TCA may also affect non-EU citizens who work for UK businesses that have a presence in the EU, as they may need to comply with EU immigration rules.
Conclusion
The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the UK and the EU has important implications for immigration. While it provides for certain benefits for EU citizens, it also sets out specific rules for the recruitment of EU workers and the recognition of qualifications. UK businesses will need to ensure that they comply with the TCA`s rules on the recruitment of EU workers, while non-EU citizens who want to work in the UK will need to meet the UK`s immigration requirements. Overall, the TCA provides a framework for cooperation on immigration between the UK and the EU, which will be important for businesses, workers, and individuals on both sides of the Channel.