Informal talks about reciprocal agreements for expats have begun and things are looking positive for UK expats living in mainland Europe.
It appears the 1.2 million British expats living in mainland Europe may receive continued rights to live abroad due to reciprocal agreements. No formal deals have been struck; however, several EU nations have expressed willingness to allow British expats the continued rights to live within their borders. Many of these informal agreements also rely on the UK honouring current migrants living and working in Great Britain. Although many politicians are saying these preliminary agreements hold no substance until Article 50 is triggered and official negotiations begin, it does appear that the rights of expats will be protected after Brexit.
“With over 1.2 million British expats in Europe, and 3.3 million EU nationals living in Great Britain, many people nervously await the reciprocal rights decision.”
Theresa May has indicated that the confirmation of expat rights is high on the list of priorities once formal negotiations begin. She has acknowledged the anxiety caused by uncertainty that’s being created for businesses and individuals. In a statement to UK business leaders May said, “I want an early agreement on the status of UK nationals in Europe and EU nationals here, so that you and they can plan with certainty.” Senior government officials have indicated that there are only a few EU member states left to agree on an outline of reciprocal agreements. Some suspect a formal announcement with regards to expat rights will be made at the EU Summit in Brussels this month.
Too many people to upset
With over 1.2 million British expats living throughout Europe, and an estimated 3.3million EU nationals living in Great Britain, there are many people awaiting the outcome of the reciprocal rights decision. Of those UK nationals living in Europe 309,000 live in Spain, 255,000 live in Ireland and 185,000 live in France. Poland has the largest number of EU nationals living in the UK (883,000), followed by Germany (297,000) and Romania (229,000). A clear decision about reciprocal rights will calm a lot of anxiety and help individuals and businesses make important decisions about the future.
Some major topics of concern for UK expats include continued eligibility of EU healthcare and benefits which is likely to continue after Brexit, the expulsion of UK expats which is highly unlikely, and the seizure of holiday homes abroad, which cannot happen due to individual property rights and protection under the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention on Human Rights.
Relax, the evidence is British people’s EU rights will be respected
Although many are hopeful the announcement of reciprocal rights won’t be far away President of the European Council, Donald Tusk, believes substantial negotiations about expat rights won’t happen until Article 50 is triggered. Many national leaders are adamant that no side-deals will be solidified until formal negotiations begin. Although no deals have been formally struck the sentiment is indicating an openness towards reciprocal agreements by most EU member states. This is good news for expats in Britain and abroad.
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