Understanding Brexit's Impact on Cypriot Movement to the UK

Introduction

As a Cypriot living in an EU state, the thought of planning a move to the UK may have been on your radar for some time. With the United Kingdom's exit from the EU (Brexit), the landscape of UK-Cyprus relations has undergone significant changes, particularly regarding mobility and work opportunities. In this article, we will explore how these changes affect Cypriots considering a move to the UK and the current visa requirements.

Before Brexit: EU Citizenship Rights

Before the Brexit transition period, Cypriots, like citizens of other EU member states, enjoyed significant rights and privileges when moving to the UK. They had the ability to work, study, and settle in the UK without facing the stringent requirements typically placed on non-EU citizens. The

work permit guaranteed job high application fees (GBP 1200) validity only for the employer who applied on their behalf

After the transition, EU citizens like Cypriots have lost these privileges. They now face the same hurdles as non-EU citizens in gaining the necessary permissions to work and live in the UK.

After Brexit: Visa Requirements

Transition Period 2020

Until the end of the transition period on December 31, 2020, EU citizens including Cypriots could move to the UK relatively freely without needing a visa. However, this transitional period was well-defined and now has concluded. Beyond this point, the situation changes significantly.

Post-Transition Period

After the transition period, Cypriot citizens will be required to apply for a visa to enter the UK. This visa system is structured in a way that demands the following:

A valid reason to come to the UK, such as for work, study, or family reasons Demonstration of financial support, with ￡18,600 being the required amount for a single person, and increased amounts for those with dependants Proving intent to return to Cyprus by the end of the visit Links to the UK, such as family or work ties

To get a visa, applicants must also provide evidence of the above requirements, such as financial statements, employment letters, and return tickets.

Examples and Practical Considerations

Visa Application Process

Based on personal experiences, the visa application process can be complex and challenging. For instance, applying for a visit visa for relatives to come to the UK has proven problematic, particularly for older relatives who may struggle to prove their intention to return. This is due to the stringent requirements placed on such visa applications.

Work Visa Scenario

A clear example is the situation faced by many workers, especially those who simply want to come to the UK to look for work. Such individuals are unlikely to receive a visa without clear evidence of a job offer from a UK employer. On the other hand, workers who have financial support in place and established connections in the UK stand a better chance of being granted a visa.

Financial Costs and Long-Term Plans

The visa application process can quickly become expensive. For example, there is a basic application fee of ￡993 for long-term stays, with increased fees for additional dependants. There is also a ￡500 NHS surcharge for non-UK nationals. These costs can add up, making the process a financial burden even before the applicant even sets foot in the UK.

Conclusion and Moving Forward

The changes brought about by Brexit significantly alter the way Cypriot citizens can move to and work in the UK. While there is a short window where Cypriots can move relatively freely, the period after the transition is fraught with challenges. Building a case for a visa requires thorough planning and evidence, and the process can be both time-consuming and costly.

Advising potential Cypriot migrants to plan their move well before the transition period ends is paramount. This will ensure that they can navigate the new visa requirements and take advantage of any flexible policies that may still be in place. Moving forward, it is crucial to stay informed about the evolving landscape of UK immigration policies to plan accordingly.