The European Union offers a new scheme allowing British youths to work, travel, and study in EU countries for up to four years, aiming to renew connections post-Brexit.
The European Union (EU) has proposed a new deal to allow British youths aged 18 to 30 to travel, work, and study in EU member countries for up to four years post-Brexit. This arrangement, aimed at bolstering ties between the UK and the EU, mirrors the freedom of movement once enjoyed prior to the UK leaving the EU.
Maros Sefcovic, from the European Commission, underscored the impact of Brexit on the opportunities available to young people in both regions, advocating for renewed connections through this initiative. The deal would see reciprocal benefits, with young Europeans similarly able to come to the UK, potentially aiding sectors like hospitality that face skill shortages.
The proposal requires participants to have a valid travel document, comprehensive sickness insurance, and proof of sufficient finances to support their stay, with calls to ensure the associated costs are not prohibitive. This move by the EU, highlighted by EU Brexit negotiator Maros Sefcovic and welcomed by the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta), reflects an attempt to alleviate post-Brexit restrictions that have limited young Brits to stays of just 90 days within the EU and have complicated the visa process for longer stays.
The UK government, under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, has yet to formally respond to the EU’s proposition, which could face challenges given the current governmental focus on immigration issues. The hospitality industry, among others, could stand to benefit should the agreement proceed. The proposal’s advancement is contingent on discussions among the 27 EU member states and subsequent negotiations with the UK.
