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Brexit 4 – Staff

Status Changes

When the UK leaves the EU then the UK stops being part of the single market, and they become different territories. UK nationals stop being part of the group of EU nationals so can be treated differently.

Employing Staff

There are no changes to the rules for employing staff, it just becomes more complicated to determine the answers.

  • Are you allowed to work in the UK – or wherever you are working?
  • Have you the necessary qualifications to do the job?

This is an ongoing responsibility not one to do just the once, so will need a review on Brexit.

As the UK splits from the EU then so new VISA’s and work requirements will be introduced. It is your responsibility to check that your staff are still allowed to work in the UK, or wherever you get them to work.

Specifically, you will need to confirm that any EU citizens working for you are still allowed to, or you as the employer face a fine of up to £20,000 per illegal worker.

Also, staff working in the EU etc. (excluding Ireland) may need to pay National insurance in that other country as well as the UK after Brexit.

Settled Status

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens, who have lived in the UK before 31st December 2020, may be able to claim settled status, before 30th June 2021. that allows them to stay in the UK as long as they wish, work in the UK, use the NHS and have access to UK pensions & benefits.

Travelling on Business

After Brexit, you will be crossing borders when traveling to the EU so will need a valid passport, insurance etc.

If you are visiting the EU on business after Brexit then there may be extra restrictions associated with your reasons for travel. Specifically, you may be treated as working in that country, when providing services, paid or as a volunteer, on tour, or even just visiting for meetings or conferences. Make sure that you as employer have checked in advance before you or your staff travel. For detailed guidance per country see

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/providing-services-to-eea-and-efta-countries-after-eu-exit

If carrying goods then there are simplified rules if they are worth less than £873 (£900 after Brexit), otherwise full export documentation will be required.

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