Brexit benefits: borders and immigration

Borders and immigration: the benefits

1. 21

   One immigration system for the whole world

   Free movement ended. EU and non-EU arrivals are treated under the same points-based rules.

   Only possible outside the EU1 Jan 2021Source: Immigration and Social Security Co-ordination (EU Withdrawal) Act 2020

2. 22

   A visa for the world's top graduates

   The High Potential Individual route lets graduates of leading universities work in the UK.

   Made easier by leaving30 May 2022Source: Home Office

3. 23

   Tougher deportation rules for EU criminals

   EU nationals arriving after 2020 face the same deportation rules as everyone else, not the stricter EU test.

   Only possible outside the EU1 Jan 2021Source: UK Borders Act 2007; Home Office

4. 24

   Electronic Travel Authorisation for EU visitors

   The UK knows who is coming before they travel.

   Only possible outside the EU2 Apr 2025Source: Home Office

More topics: Sovereignty and law · Trade · Borders and immigration · Tax and cost of living · Business and finance · Health and science · Farming, fishing and nature · Tech and data · The full selection of 52

The numbers match our full selection of 52 Brexit benefits. We only list changes that are in force or signed, with a date and a primary source. "Only possible outside the EU" means EU law or EU exclusive powers would have blocked it. "Made easier by leaving" means it was possible in principle but faster or simpler outside.