The European Union and the United Kingdom are working to simplify the process for their young citizens to study, work, and reside in each other's territories once more.
Summary:
The EU has suggested initiating talks with the UK to enhance opportunities for youth mobility. The objective is to simplify the process for young citizens of both the EU and the UK to study, work, and reside on either side of the Channel. The proposed agreement would permit individuals aged 18 to 30 from both regions to stay for up to four years in the host country.
The European Union Commission has suggested initiating negotiations with the United Kingdom to facilitate mobility among young individuals. The objective is to establish an agreement that simplifies the process for young citizens of both the EU and the UK to study, work, and reside in each other's territories without facing stringent regulations. Since Brexit, there has been a notable decline in the movement of people between these regions, particularly impacting opportunities for young individuals to explore life across the Channel and engage in cultural, educational, and research exchanges. Through this proposal, authorities aim to address existing barriers and grant young people easier and longer-term travel rights between the EU and the UK. The proposal outlines specific conditions, including age requirements, maximum duration of stay, eligibility criteria, and verification rules, which must be met by individuals for study, training, or work purposes. Under this proposed agreement, EU and UK citizens aged 18 to 30 would be permitted to stay for up to four years in the host country.
"Our goal is to reconstruct interpersonal connections among young Europeans," stated Maroš Šefčovič, the Executive Vice-President for European Green Deal, Interinstitutional Relations, and Foresight, in response to the proposal. He emphasized that the primary objective of the proposal is to foster stronger ties between Europeans on both sides of the Channel. Šefčovič reiterated the Commission's dedication to providing opportunities for young citizens of both the EU and the UK. The departure of the United Kingdom from the European Union has disproportionately impacted young individuals in both regions who aspire to study, work, and reside abroad. Today, we are taking the initial step toward a comprehensive yet pragmatic agreement between the EU and the UK to address this issue," Šefčovič added. The Commission's recommendation on this matter will now undergo deliberation in the EU Council. If the Council endorses the proposal, the Commission will proceed to commence negotiations with the UK regarding youth mobility.