Application for dual passports and naturalization are now on the rise as thousands of Britons abroad and continental Europeans living in the United Kingdom worry on what a possible Brexit, or the likelihood that Great Britain will leave the European Union after the 2016 referendum, may bring.
In a survey conducted to more than 1,200 European citizens, the responses show that a vast majority of them are in the process of changing their citizenship or nationality, while others are still considering doing it. With so many concerns, many of them are worried that without dual nationality, the Brexit will make life for a U.K. citizen in the EU, and an EU citizen in Great Britain greatly problematic.
Topping the list of their concerns are:
- The fast-track EU-only lines at passport control will end;
- Work permits for employees will be returned;
- Reciprocal public healthcare arrangements will be abandoned;
- Restrictions on studying and doing business will be tighter;
- Taxes on foreign property ownership and cash transfers between member states will become higher;
- Treatment of foreign pensions.
Aside from these, Brits would possibly end up needing to apply for visas every time they travel across the Channel. Britons who are living in Spain may be subjected to additional rules like the requirement to speak the language of the host country, before they will be granted a long-term residency status.
Stephanie Zihms, a German national who lives in Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, consider that "the worst is the uncertainty." Zihms pointed out that, "Everyone talks about Brexit in big-picture economic or political terms; no one considers what it might mean personally, to so many people." She also expressed her sentiment saying, "My life is here now. Would I need a visa to visit my family? A minimum number of points to be able to work? No one can say." Zihms intends to take the 'Life in the UK Test' soon.
Some 2.4 million EU citizens living in the U.K. and almost two million Brits residing on the continent are estimated to be affected by the possible Brexit, which would involve many years of negotiation for legislation and regulation. Many, however, are refusing to leave anything to chance.
