Will Brits need EU work visas after Brexit?

Yes, British citizens have ceased to be EU citizens as a result of Brexit.

Here’s what that means in clear terms:

1. British Citizens Are No Longer EU Citizens

When the UK officially left the European Union on January 31, 2020, and the transition period ended on December 31, 2020, UK nationals lost their EU citizenship. That means they no longer benefit from the core rights that EU citizenship provides.

2. What Does That Change?

Before Brexit, UK citizens had the freedom of movement, which allowed them to:

• Live, work, or study in any EU country without a visa

• Start a business in any EU country

• Access healthcare and social security systems under EU-wide coordination

• Bring family members with fewer restrictions

After Brexit, these rights no longer apply automatically.

3. Post-Brexit Status = ""Third Country Nationals""

British citizens are now treated as non-EU third-country nationals when traveling or moving to EU countries. That means:

• They need a visa or residence permit to live, work, or stay longer than 90 days in most EU countries

• They must meet the specific immigration rules of each EU member state

• Employers in EU countries may need to sponsor UK citizens for work visas, just like they would for someone from the U.S. or India

4. The 90/180 Rule for Visitors

British citizens can visit EU countries visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism or short business trips (like attending a meeting), but not to work or live there.

5. Exceptions and Special Cases

• UK nationals who were already living in an EU country before the end of 2020 may retain some residency rights under the Withdrawal Agreement, if they applied on time.

• Ireland is an exception: Thanks to the Common Travel Area, UK citizens can still live and work freely in Ireland, and Irish citizens can do the same in the UK.

Summary:

• British citizens are no longer EU citizens

• They no longer have the automatic right to live or work in the EU

• They now need visas or permits, just like citizens of other non-EU countries

• Special protections exist for those who were settled in the EU before Brexit