If you’re looking for a change of scene, and looking toward the UK to work and live in a different country, then Brexit may have helped your cause. Currently, there are quite stringent conditions on working and living in the UK for an extended period of time. However, Australian high commissioner to the UK, Alexander Downer, believes that Brexit is the catalyst for change.
In an interview with the ABC, Mr Downer said the current British migration policy strongly favours European migration and marginalises Australian skilled workers. The EU stipulated that the UK had to prioritise European workers, however Britain’s exit from the EU may signify a renegotiation of priorities. Mr Downer plans to be at the forefront of this process, representing Australians in advocating for improved visa arrangements for Australians.
Mr Downer aims to make it easier for Australians to live and work in the UK in larger numbers than are currently allowed. Over the past decade, the number of Australians obtaining work visas from the UK Home Office has halved due to harsher restrictions and increased costs.
A government led by Boris Johnson would probably be more lenient on Australian workers, as Johnson has previously advocated for borderless mobility zones for workers. In 2015, Johnson proposed an Australia-UK agreement to effect this change. This would mean that you could pack your bags and be in a new office in a short 22 hour flight.
Whether it’s Boris Johnson or someone else at the helm, it is obvious that Brexit means change for visa requirements. Hopefully Mr Downer will be able to secure visa agreements that are much more lenient so you can change your surroundings and have weekend trips to Paris.
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