Commonwealth pleads for same rights in Britain as EU citizens

COMMONWEALTH countries have warned Britain not to make it harder for their citizens than for Europeans to access opportunities in the UK after Brexit.

They want the same rights to work and live in Britain as EU citizens.

The call comes amid speculation about the migration regulations post-Brexit.

Under consideration is a plan to let EU citizens visit Britain for a limited period of perhaps six months without needing a visa.

The arrangements for EU holidaymakers would be modelled on those that now exist for visitors from many non-European countries.

Citizens of countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand and America can visit Britain for up to six months without needing a visa.

But in most cases they need a visa and job offer to come to the UK to work.

Australians, for example, need a visa enabling them to stay in Britain for up to five years which they can only get if they have secured a skilled job in the UK – generally paying at least £25,000 a year. They must also present a sponsorship certificate from the employer and have at least £945 in savings.

These countries are now warning Britain not to make it easier for EU citizens to work in Britain than for their nationals.

There is speculation the Home Office ideas would not only make it easy for EU job-seekers to come to Britain, but also that they could then work without needing visas thanks to a “light touch” online application system.

Australian foreign minister Julie Bishop says her colleagues would be disappointed if Britain slaps tougher conditions on workers from her country than on those from the EU after Brexit.

An Australian government source added that Canada and New Zealand shared the concern and that the issue would be a feature of any future trade talks.

India has also made clear it will make immigration rules central to trade pact talks.