UK government accused of frightening immigrants into leaving the country
EU citizens residing in the UK feel compelled to demonstrate contrition and humility, as if they are expected to apologize for being unaware of the post-Brexit visa regulations. Before Brexit was formalized on January 31, 2020, EU nationals living in the UK experienced relatively uncomplicated lives. However, the scenario shifted drastically post-Brexit. Numerous individuals, some of whom had been in the UK for over a decade and possessed permanent residency cards, were suddenly informed they no longer had the right to reside there due to their failure to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme by the June 30, 2021, deadline, a change many claims they were unaware of. In response to the backlash from affected EU citizens and their advocates, the UK government, in January, indicated a possibility for them to remain in the UK.
The grassroots organization, the3million, established to advocate for EU citizens in the UK post the 2016 Brexit referendum, has expressed doubts that the government’s recent changes will suffice. They highlighted that the modifications allow for late applications to the EU Settlement Scheme under limited circumstances, which they believe will still present significant hurdles for many.
A letter coordinated by the3million and signed by 50 organizations calling for government action was deemed too little, too late. The requirement for individuals to display regret for their ignorance of the changes was criticized, alongside concerns that only those with legal assistance might successfully navigate the application process.
The story of Massimo and Dee, an Italian couple in Belfast, exemplifies the challenges faced by EU citizens post-Brexit, including unexpected bank account closures that left them devastated and seeking clarity on their situation. Their experience underlines the lack of transparency and guidance from the government regarding the new regulations.
The3million continues to argue that the government’s approach risks leaving vulnerable individuals, including those without digital literacy or in poverty, at a disadvantage. They criticize the assumption that individuals will encounter a “trigger event” prompting them to apply for status, a situation reminiscent of the Windrush scandal.
Despite the Home Office’s assertion that their policy has been clear, many, including the3million, argue that the government has not fulfilled its promises to protect the rights of EU citizens post-Brexit. The recent removal of ignorance of the settlement scheme as a valid reason for a late application has been particularly controversial.
The ongoing challenges faced by EU citizens in the UK, such as those experienced by Dee and Massimo, highlight the broader implications of Brexit on individuals’ lives and businesses, with many fearing for the future role of EU citizens in the UK unless the government revises its stance.
