On a school trip to London, to a language course in Brighton: What numerous students experienced is hardly possible anymore because of Brexit. That should change again.
Since Brexit, the number of student trips from EU countries to Great Britain has collapsed. Observers assume a minus of 75 percent.
The reason is stricter British entry rules: All participants must now present a passport, and students from non-EU countries may also need a visa for Great Britain. The federal government is committed to a turnaround, as the German ambassador in London, Miguel Berger, told the German Press Agency.
Student trips should become easier
“It is very important to us that student trips and exchanges, which have unfortunately declined sharply with Brexit, become easier again – by simplifying the entry requirements,” said Berger. “Specifically, we would like the British government to recognize the instrument of student collection lists again, as was the case until October 2021.”
Student collection lists are available for school trips within the European Union as well as to Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, members of the European Economic Area. This means that students from third countries can enter the country without a visa.
Great Britain recently found a corresponding bilateral solution with France. Berger said that the federal government is committed to ensuring that this will soon also be possible for students from Germany and the entire EU.
Schedule open
“We are also in an exploratory phase regarding a so-called Youth Mobility Scheme, like the one the British have with individual states outside the EU,” said the diplomat. The program allows young people aged between 18 and 35 to live and work in the UK for up to two years. “This would be a great opportunity for young people from Germany and the entire EU to be able to be here for several months and earn a little living,” said Berger.
Experts point out that the British catering industry has been suffering from a shortage of skilled workers since Brexit. Many young people from Spain, Portugal and Italy worked in pubs and hotels. However, due to the introduction of expensive work visas after Brexit, they can no longer afford to move to Great Britain. The conservative British government wants to reduce net immigration with drastic laws.
Berger did not give a timetable. “The EU member states are exchanging ideas with each other in Brussels,” he said. “It would be desirable if such an agreement could be implemented for the entire EU in the near future.”
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
