Brexit transition period

The UK left the EU on 31 January 2020 and is currently in a transition period until 31 December 2020. The new rules for business between the UK and EU countries starts in January 2020.

Regardless of the arrangements that the Government negotiates with the EU, certain changes that impact UK businesses will apply from January. These changes are due to the fact that the UK will be leaving the single market and the customs union.

Five questions to ask yourself:

1. Do I travel to the EU for work purposes? If you travel to the EU for work you will need to check if you need a visa or work permit and apply if necessary.
2. Does my business sell goods to the EU - import goods from the EU? If you sell goods to the EU or import goods from the EU, you'll need to prepare for new customs procedures.
3. Does my business provide services in the EU? If you provide business services in the EU, you must ensure that your qualifications are now recognised by EU regulations to be able to practice or service clients in the EU.
4. Does my business receive personal data from contacts in the European Economic Area (EEA)? If you’re a UK business or organisation that receives personal data from contacts (clients, customers, business partners) in the EEA (all EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway), you may need to take extra steps to ensure that this data can continue to flow legally at the end of the transition period.
5. Does my business employ overseas nationals from the EU? If you employ overseas nationals, you will need to prepare your business for the new immigration system, so that you’re an approved sponsor. The new rules will apply to people arriving in the UK from 1 January 2021, and will mean that EU citizens moving to the UK for work will need to get a visa in advance.

Use the simple checker tool on GOV.UK/transition for a personalised summary of the actions you need to take.