Bill Introduced to End Free Movement and Pave Way for Single Immigration System
March 6, 2020

At a Glance
- The UK government has introduced a bill that is intended to end free movement from the European Economic Area (EEA) after 2020 and pave the way for a single immigration system applicable to EEA and non-EEA nationals starting January 1, 2021.
- While it does not set out in any detail how UK immigration will work from 2021, it will enable the UK government to introduce new stringent immigration controls for Europeans while loosening existing controls for non-Europeans.
The situation
The UK government has introduced a bill that is intended to end free movement from the European Economic Area (EEA) after 2020 and pave the way for a single immigration system applicable to EEA and non-EEA nationals starting January 1, 2021.
The legislation would clear the way for the United Kingdom to end its involvement in European free movement on January 1, 2021, after which a new immigration system would be introduced for all European and non-European nationals.
A closer look
The immigration bill contains powers to end the United Kingdom’s involvement in European free movement. While it does not set out in any detail how UK immigration will work from 2021, it will enable the UK government to introduce new stringent immigration controls for Europeans while loosening existing controls for non-Europeans.
Impact
The bill is an important legislative vehicle, but in practical terms will make less difference to employers than the plans published by the government in February.
Looking ahead
Fragomen will track the passage of the bill. Most commentators assume it will be approved by Parliament. Plans for a new immigration system will largely be introduced in secondary legislation that is expected later this year, once the bill has passed.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
Explore more at Fragomen

Video
Learn how international graduates can stay in France for one year to find work or start a business. Discover eligibility requirements, application steps and transition options for the Job Seeker/New Business Creator permit.

Awards
Partner Priscilla Muhlenkamp is a finalist for the 2025 National Law Journal Awards category, "DC Managing Partner of the Year."

Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper highlights that new $100K H-1B fees could affect US employers, with possible exemptions for critical roles.

Media mentions
Partner Louise Senior highlights the impact of record-breaking UK sponsor licence revocations and the steps hospitality businesses can take to manage compliance.

Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper explores the impact of H-1B visa changes on companies and their talent strategies.

Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper explains that while new H-1B fees affect future petitions, US opportunities for international talent remain highly valued.

Media mentions
Fragomen explores in an article how international recruitment can help solve Germany’s public sector staffing crisis and support the future of essential services.

Blog post
Assistant Manager Charo Medida explains the work permit requirements for employers and professionals under the UAE Golden Visa programme.

Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper explains how proposed H-1B fee and lottery changes impact hiring of skilled international talent across sectors.

Media mentions
Partner Haider Hussain underlines the role of talent mobility in shaping future growth sectors in the Kingdom.

Fragomen news
Fragomen is recognised by the Financial Times for its innovative work in workforce mobility and cross-sector collaboration.

Media mentions
Partner Daniel Brown outlines steps companies can take to support employees and maintain smooth operations during compliance-related situations.

Video
Learn how international graduates can stay in France for one year to find work or start a business. Discover eligibility requirements, application steps and transition options for the Job Seeker/New Business Creator permit.

Awards
Partner Priscilla Muhlenkamp is a finalist for the 2025 National Law Journal Awards category, "DC Managing Partner of the Year."

Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper highlights that new $100K H-1B fees could affect US employers, with possible exemptions for critical roles.

Media mentions
Partner Louise Senior highlights the impact of record-breaking UK sponsor licence revocations and the steps hospitality businesses can take to manage compliance.

Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper explores the impact of H-1B visa changes on companies and their talent strategies.

Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper explains that while new H-1B fees affect future petitions, US opportunities for international talent remain highly valued.

Media mentions
Fragomen explores in an article how international recruitment can help solve Germany’s public sector staffing crisis and support the future of essential services.

Blog post
Assistant Manager Charo Medida explains the work permit requirements for employers and professionals under the UAE Golden Visa programme.

Media mentions
Partner Bo Cooper explains how proposed H-1B fee and lottery changes impact hiring of skilled international talent across sectors.

Media mentions
Partner Haider Hussain underlines the role of talent mobility in shaping future growth sectors in the Kingdom.

Fragomen news
Fragomen is recognised by the Financial Times for its innovative work in workforce mobility and cross-sector collaboration.

Media mentions
Partner Daniel Brown outlines steps companies can take to support employees and maintain smooth operations during compliance-related situations.