The Government in the United Kingdom is still undergoing many changes due to its exit from the European Union in anticipation in case sufficient bilateral agreements are not reached.
One area of concern is that the country continues to benefit from skilled professionals from overseas. In light of this they have launched an open consultation which was published on the 25th of August 2020 and is due to close on the 23rd October 2020, its aim being to assess the approach with regards to the recognition of professional qualifications and regulation of professions.
Qualified professionals such as international contractors and freelancers have proven to be instrumental in modern times with ease of movement to helping development and progress in particular industries around the globe. In light of Brexit the United Kingdom will not want its economy restricted due to unnecessary impediments to professionals entering the United Kingdom. This is of particular concern due to the global crisis already caused due to restricted movements due to Covid-19.
The aim is that the United Kingdom continues to be appeal to high level global professionals that complement to UK workforce whilst providing consistent value and protection to constomers. As such if no bilateral agreements are concluded this year, then an interim system will be introduced in January 2021 in order that EEA and Swiss professionals are not inconvenienced unnecessarily. In particular to international contractors and freelancers who may now need their professional qualifications recognised for the purposes of obtaining a visa or temporary work permit.
If you are an international contractor or freelancer and are considering contracts in the United Kingdom or elsewhere please do not hesitate to contact us for further information regarding services that we provide in relation to this.