In this interim research report from the BrExpats research project, Professor Karen O’Reilly (Department of Sociology, Goldsmiths) draws out the initial themes from her conversations with Britons living in Spain about what Brexit means for the British living in the EU27. The research on which the report is based was carried out in Spain, October 2017.
• British abroad are a far more diverse group than are represented by the mass media, politicians and commentators.
• Our research is generating an overwhelming response.
• Brexit is affecting people now - financially and emotionally.
• There is a lot of fear, anxiety and confusion, for British abroad over how to legally secure their future residence rights.
• Registering, the Padron, and Residencia: the facts.
• Brexit is causing British abroad to ask fundamental questions about their identity.
Key areas of concern
• What their residence rights will be.
• What the cut-off date will be for the right to remain.
• What their health entitlements will be.
• Whether the payment of social care benefits will continue.
• Whether there will be continuing free movement.
• If they return to the UK will they be able to bring partners or children born in other European countries with them?
• Whether the EHIC will still be available.
• If they own a home in Spain, how many months of the year will they be able to spend there.
• About the right to work and the translation of professional qualifications .
• Whether, if they choose to become a Spanish Citizen, they will be allowed to return to the UK in the future.
• What voting rights they will have, and whether they will still be allowed to vote in local elections
