Bevan Foundation gives evidence to the External Affairs and Additional Legislation Committee

The Bevan Foundation has given evidence to the External Affairs and Additional Legislation Committee’s inquiry into free movement after Brexit

Free movement ended on the 31st December 2020. The change means it will be harder for EU migrants to come to Wales to live and work. Claire Thomas, policy and research officer at the Bevan Foundation, set out our thoughts on the new system and the impact on migration to Wales.

The focus of the session was on the progress of the European Union Settlement Scheme. EU migrants living in Wales have until the end of June 2021 to apply to the scheme. Claire outlined some concerns about the application process and the impact of COVID-19. As the June deadline approaches she said that many people will not have applied and will be in a vulnerable situation in terms of their rights and immigration status.

Whilst welcoming the increased investment made by the Welsh Government to support EU migrants, Claire argued that more needs to be done to ensure people apply. Importantly, that people have access to support beyond the June deadline.

You can watch the full session here

You can find out more about our work on the European Union Settlement scheme here