What is Brexit and will it affect me if I relocate to the UK?

By Luke Aldred

​Now that the UK has left the European Union (EU), if you’re currently overseas and looking for a healthcare or social work job here you might have some questions. So, what is Brexit? What’s the current status? And how could it affect you as a migrant worker?

Brexit

A blend of the words ‘Britain’ and ‘exit’, Brexit is the word used to describe Britain’s split from the EU and the change in its relationship on trade, security and migration.
In 2013, former UK Prime Minister David Cameron promised the nation a referendum on EU membership. People were to decide whether to remain or leave. After a somewhat contentious national campaign, the decision was to leave, with the support of 52% of voters. Since then, there have been many debates to figure out how the country could and should actually leave the EU.

The Current Status

On 31 January 2020, Britain left the EU and has now entered an 11-month transition period. Read more on all you need to know about Brexit.

How will Brexit affect me?

In February 2020, the UK government set out its post-Brexit immigration system, which operates on points (with 70 points needed for an overseas citizen to work in the UK). Under the new system, it is essential to have a job offer at an appropriate skill level by an approved sponsor, and to speak English at the required standard. Having these would award potential workers 50 points, with them able to gain the extra points needed by earning over £25,600, having a PhD in a STEM subject, or having an offer of a job in which the UK has a shortage. We do in fact have a shortage of nurses, doctors, social workers and allied health professionals here, so if you’re looking to relocate for a job in these sectors, the good news is you’ll still be able to.

For more information on moving to the UK, read our collection of blogs.