A ‘Brexit Information Point’ and telephone line were recently opened in Amsterdam for the nearly 15,000 British expats living and working in the Dutch region to provide information regarding the UK’s decision to leave the European Union.
Following the recent 23 June referendum, the United Kingdom has voted to withdraw its membership from the European Union. The ‘Brexit’, as its popularly known, has raised numerous immigration concerns among British employees, freelancers and students in the Netherlands who are uncertain of their future rights to live and work in the country, De Telegraaf reported.
To address the situation, the municipality of Amsterdam, along with Expatcenter Amsterdam and amsterdam inbusiness, has especially created a Brexit Information Point and hotline to actively inform British expats with future developments.
The counter is located at the Expatcenter Amsterdam while the information line can be reached by calling +31 (0)20 254 7999, according to Amsterdam’s municipal website. British citizens already residing in the Netherlands, individuals interested in relocating and businesses are encouraged to visit or inquire about policy changes.
“The Expatcenter will [gather] all relevant information together, keeping it up to date and available at all times. The counter will provide relevant and applicable information to Britons who already live or wish to move here, ” wrote Councillor Kajsa Ollongren in a letter, adding that she expects that more companies will want to settle in Amsterdam due to the Brexit.
Amsterdam’s municipal website provides an overview of potential outcomes once the UK triggers its formal secession under Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty — an important step that it has yet to take.
“The EU and Britain have two years to negotiate Britain’s withdrawal; this period could be extended if all member states agree to it. During negotiations, Britain remains a member of the EU and British citizens retain all their rights under EU law, including that of free movement,” the website said.
Once negotiations ensue, it added that new treaties could be forged, granting British citizens continuous free movement within EU member states.
The website also outlines existing options for non-EU citizens seeking to live and work in the Netherlands and long-time British expats wishing to gain Dutch citizenship.
For more information about the Brexit Information Point, click here.
Originally published by Expatica
