Europeans rushing to UK before immigration rules tighten

Following the publication of quarterly figures on migration to the UK from the Office of National Statistics, lawyers have said the government’s plans are “worrying”.

Jonathan Beech, managing director of Migrate UK, said: “The government’s plan to seek curbs on free movement rules is a worrying one for many, as industries like engineering, IT, construction and hospitality rely heavily on skills from outside the UK.”

He added: “For particular sectors and skills, the government will have to seriously consider free movement to some extent in exchange for diminished access to the EU’s single market, or face the prospect of these industries in the UK, declining or relocating.”

Mr Beech said that EU citizens studying or working in the UK are treated as “qualified persons” and should apply for a registration certificate, proving their right to work or live in the UK. Those who have been here for a minimum of five years, or three for the spouses of British citizens, can make an application for permanent residency and British nationality a year later.

He said: “With the home affairs committee warning of possible fresh delays and backlogs in the immigration system as more people enter the UK and no date as yet set on changes to the immigration rules we’re advising organisations with EU workers, and citizens themselves, not to delay their applications.”