Index – Abroad – The transition period is coming to an end: what do you need to know about Brexit?



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1. Why, what does the Brexit transition period mean and how long?

The UK withdrew from the European Union on January 31 of this year (this is Brexit), so it no longer participates in EU decision-making. But a transition period between the EU and the UK has started to facilitate change and pending negotiations. It runs until December 31, 2020, the last day of the year.

2. When will I need a passport to enter?

Starting in 2021, once the transition period is over, the British will introduce full border controls. This also means that from October 2021, with the exception of Irish and Gibraltarians, EU citizens, including Hungarians, will only be able to travel to the island country with a passport. An identity card will no longer be enough. The British refer to security considerations.

3. What should I do if I arrive in the country next year but I don’t have a passport?

Only those established or having a previous status are exempt from the passport obligation; where applicable, London will also allow entry in late 2025 in person.

4. How long will I be able to stay in the UK?

Under the rules in force now, a Hungarian citizen can stay there for three months without restrictions. Based on experience, this is the case for most Hungarian travelers: tourists, family visitors, and those traveling on business. However, most Hungarian citizens can stay outside for a longer period of time only in certain cases:

  • if you have an employment relationship;
  • if you are self-employed;
  • if you are studying; or
  • if you can show that you are self-sufficient, that is, there is so much money available that the host country’s social security system may not need it.

5. What should I do if I live abroad or want to live there for a longer period of time?

Hungarians living abroad or emigrants are required to register if they want to confirm their intention to stay. UK authorities can apply for established status until June 30, 2021. Upon successful registration, two types of status can be obtained: “settled”, that is, the status of those who have been living in the UK for five years, and “pre-settled”, that is, the pre-establishment status of those who have spent less than five years in the island country. In the absence of an application, the right of residence is lost. The website of the Hungarian Embassy in London provides information here.

6. What rights will I have after having acquired one of the established or pre-established states?

I have the opportunity to work. I can use the services of the National Health Service (NHS). I will also have the opportunity to continue my previous studies and enroll in an educational institution. I am free to enter and leave the UK.

7. What kind of paper do you need to work?

Hungarian citizens arriving after January 1 must already apply for a visa to work with the British authorities.

8. If I have applied or am applying to a university, can I receive a tuition scholarship?

According to the current position, as of the next school year, that is, the academic year 2021-22, European students studying in England will no longer be eligible for payment of tuition fees. Following Brexit, several universities plan to launch scholarship programs for EU students.

9. I get settled status. After that, do I have to live in the island country all the time?

Once I have established status, I can live outside the UK for up to five consecutive years. If I go beyond that, I may lose my status. If I have pre-established status, I can spend two consecutive years outside the country without losing my status. However, to get settled status as well, I have to live outside without interruptions.

10. Can I apply for state aid in the UK?

If I have registered with the British authorities and I belong to one of the two states, I can benefit from public funding. For example, I can claim a pension if I meet the conditions.

(Cover image: Man waving the English flag in London on January 31, 2020. Photo: Henry Nicholls / Reuters)



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