Reviewed and approved by Paul Murran, Managing Partner, Peter O’Connor & Son LLP.
Post-Brexit immigration refers to the legal framework and policies governing the movement, residency, and work rights of UK and EU citizens in Ireland following the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union (Brexit).
This is primarily regulated under:
- The Common Travel Area (CTA) Agreement – Ensures reciprocal rights for Irish and UK citizens, allowing them to live, work, and travel freely between both countries without immigration restrictions.
- The Immigration Act 1999 & The Immigration Act 2004 – Governs entry, residence, and employment conditions for non-Irish nationals, including new provisions affecting UK-resident EU citizens.
- EU Treaty Rights & Free Movement Directives – While Ireland remains part of the EU, Brexit ended the UK’s access to these rights, meaning UK residents (who are not Irish citizens) may now be subject to different immigration rules in Ireland.
- Employment Permits Act 2003 (as amended) – Governs work permit requirements for non-EU citizens, though UK citizens are exempt under the CTA.
Key Post-Brexit Changes:
- UK citizens retain their rights in Ireland under the CTA, without visa or work permit requirements.
- Non-Irish EU citizens living in the UK may face new entry requirements when travelling to Ireland.
- UK-based businesses must now comply with Irish work permit laws when hiring EU nationals for Ireland.
At Peter O’Connor & Son Solicitors, we specialise in Irish immigration law and provide expert guidance on post-Brexit residency, work permits, and travel regulations. Contact us today for personalised support on your post-Brexit immigration rights.