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Post-Brexit: Debunking the Myths of British Passport for Working Abroad
Brexit has brought about significant changes in various aspects of British life, including travel and work abroad. Among these changes, the status of UK passports and holders’ rights to work abroad have been the subject of much confusion and misinformation.
Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure British citizens are well-informed about their travel and work options in the EU. This Pacific Prime UK article aims to debunk common myths surrounding British passports and their implications for working abroad in the post-Brexit era, including accessing health care.
Myth 1: British Passports are No Longer Valid in the EU
| Reality |
| British passports remain valid for travel to EU countries and the rest of the world. However, there have been some changes in entry requirements and the duration of stay for British citizens in the EU. |
UK passports issued before Brexit (red passports) are still valid until their expiration date. The only change is that passports issued after Brexit no longer include the words “European Union” on the cover. Despite this cosmetic change, these passports are fully recognized internationally.
While British citizens can still enter EU countries, they now face new restrictions. Travelers can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. For longer stays or work purposes, additional documentation may be required.
However, it’s important to note that the EU has introduced the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). British citizens, along with nationals of other non-EU countries, will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization before traveling to the Schengen Area as part of an authorization process.
Myth 2: British Citizens Can No Longer Work in EU countries
| Reality |
| Working in EU countries is still possible for British citizens, but with new restrictions and requirements. |
British citizens used to enjoy autonomy of movement within the EU, allowing them to live and work in any member state without a visa; British citizens now need to comply with individual EU country’s work visa requirements after Brexit, usually a job offer and work permit.
For instance, to work in Germany, British citizens may need to apply for a work and residence permit. In France, they might need to obtain a long-stay work visa. These requirements vary by country and depend on factors such as the nature and duration of work.
It’s important to note that some EU countries have introduced preferential arrangements for British citizens. For example, Portugal has a special visa for British nationals, making it easier for them to live and work there than non-EU citizens from other countries.
Myth 3: British Passports Have Lost Their Global Power
| Reality |
| While Brexit has affected the ease of living and working in the EU, it is not true that UK passports have lost their global power. |
According to Passport Index, which ranks passports based on the number of visa-free entry destinations, the UK passport consistently ranks in the top 10 globally. As of 2024, British passports are ranked 6th and holders can visit over 174 countries and territories visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access.
British citizens have undeniably lost some privileges within the EU. Nonetheless, the UK passport is still one of the most powerful in the post-Brexit world, offering convenient visa-free access to many countries worldwide.
Myth 4: Renewing or Obtaining a British Passport is Now More Difficult
| Reality |
| The passport application process remains largely unchanged post-Brexit. |
Brexit has not made the process of applying for or renewing a UK passport more complicated. The application can still be completed online by post, and the processing times are similar to pre-Brexit levels.
The most noticeable change is in the passport’s design. New British passports issued since 2020 are blue, reminiscent of the pre-EU British passports, rather than the previous burgundy color. They also feature updated security features to prevent forgery.
Myth 5: British Citizens Won’t Have Access to Free Healthcare in the EU
| Reality |
| You still can have access to healthcare. If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), it remains valid until its expiry date. Once it expires, you’ll need to apply for a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to replace it. |
A new UK GHIC can be applied for after the old EHIC has expired. New EHICs are now issued only to UK nationals covered by the Withdrawal Agreement. This includes EU nationals living in the UK, UK students studying in the EU, and British pensioners residing in the EU who moved before January 2021.
Both of the cards have equal rights— offering the same coverage for state-provided healthcare services abroad in the EU:
- emergency treatment
- visits to A&E
- routine maternity care, unless you’re going abroad to give birth
Conclusion
Although Brexit has vastly changed how British citizens can travel and work abroad in the EU, many of the circulating myths about UK passports are exaggerated or false. British passports are still powerful, allowing visa-free access to many countries worldwide, with some new requirements and restrictions.
To ensure a seamless travel or work experience abroad in the EU, British citizens are recommended to secure short-term or international health insurance. Either the new GHIC or EHIC are not a substitute for insurance coverage, only offering emergency care for unexpected illnesses abroad.
Pacific Prime has 20 years of experience comparing and finding the best-fitting insurance solution for globetrotters. Leveraging our global coverage with over 13 offices, we strive to provide top-notch support throughout your journey abroad, with peace of mind knowing your health is protected whenever necessary.
Contact our team of expert advisors today, or get a quote from our advance online quotation system to get started!
Since joining Pacific Prime, Eric was exposed to a new world of insurance. Having learned about insurance products extensively, he has taken joy and satisfaction in helping individuals and businesses manage risks and protect themselves against financial loss through the power of words.
Although born and raised in Hong Kong, he spent a quarter of his life living and studying in the UK. He believes his multicultural experience is a great asset in understanding the needs and wants of expats and globe-trotters.
Eric’s strengths lie in his strong research, analytical, and communication skills, obtained through his BA in Linguistics from the University of York and MSc in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from the University of Bristol.
Outside of work, he enjoys some me-time gaming and reading on his own, occasionally going absolutely mental on a night out with friends.
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