Employing EU Citizens

The rules around employing EU citizens are changing. As such, it is crucial to get specialist legal advice from an expert immigration lawyer as soon as possible. At Latta & Co, we can help you with all the legal formalities and ensure that you are prepared and remain compliant throughout the Brexit transition. For immediate guidance, click here.

Right to Work

For now, employers can continue to check that an EU citizen who arrived in the UK before 31 December 2020 has the right to work by either:

• checking their passport,
• checking their national identity card, or
• using the government’s online checking service.

If you want to hire an EU citizen who needs to travel to the UK to work for you, or who arrived in the UK on or after 1 January 2021, a visa under the government’s new points-based immigration system will be required to prove their right to work.

Settled and Pre-Settled Status

EU citizens who have been granted settled or pre-settled status [LINK] have the right to work in the UK. After 30 June 2021, you should check their status using the government’s online checking system. Please note that employers cannot ask for proof of settled or pre-settled status before this date.

You will need a sponsor licence to hire those with settled or pre-settled status. If you are already a licensed Tier 2 visa sponsor, you will automatically be granted a Skilled Worker licence. Otherwise, you will need to make an application.

Employing EU Citizens – Specialist Legal Advice in Glasgow, Scotland

As an employer, we understand that the new rules around employing EU citizens can feel daunting. It can take a few months for a sponsor licence to be granted, so avoid delay by speaking with an immigration lawyer as soon as possible. If you need guidance, give us a call today on 0141 222 2185 or use our contact form to get in touch. 

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