On 8 December 2020, the Department of Economy (DfE) ran a webinar in conjunction with the Home Office dealing with the issues arising with the workforce following Brexit.

There were a number of questions asked by delegates and DfE committed to responding in writing which they have now done in this 24 page document.  We have decided to circulate this as we believe some Members may find the attached information helpful. The answers have been reviewed and cleared by the Home Office and are up to date as at 28 January 2021.

These extensive FAQs cover issues including:

• Points Based System
• EU Settlement Scheme
• Frontier Workers
• Right To Work Checks
• Seasonal Agriculture Workers
• Shortage Occupation List
• Sponsorship & Recruitment
• Visas

In response to what 3 actions should Employers should do now they said:

1. Ensure any EU Nationals working for them are aware of the EU Settlement Scheme signpost them to official sources of information and support, and encourage them to apply.
2. Make a decision as to whether they need to become a Sponsor, considering their current and planned recruitment practices.
3. Take the right action at the right time – consider processing and lead in times.

A useful link document referencing the web pages where applications can be made for Settled Status, Frontier Workers is available below.

If you have any queries, please contact us. Depending on the complexity of the issue we may refer you for further specialist immigration advice.