Thursday 20 February 2020
'As part of the Common Travel Area, Guernsey - and all other members - plays its part to ensure appropriate controls are in place to manage immigration.
That does not however mean that we automatically have to replicate whatever system and criteria the UK government apply. Undoubtedly the significant change with the future UK Borders and Immigration which has just been announced will mean that we need to consider the implications for the way, as a Bailiwick, we operate our own checks and balances on immigration and in particular our Work Permit Policy. But that remains a choice for us, as there will be different immigration systems in operation within the CTA.
'We recognise the needs in the Bailiwick are different to the UK and therefore whatever system is operated locally will be tailored to the local situation. The Committee is fully aware that it is not in our interests to introduce a work permit policy that harms our community and economy. Any future changes will be carefully thought through and we will be in close dialogue with industry representatives where appropriate. Officers are already working closely with counterparts in the UK and the other Crown Dependencies. This work will take some time but there is no need for industry or the community to be alarmed by the UK's announcement.
'There will be no change to the rights and status of EU citizens currently living in the Bailiwick who apply to our EU Settlement Scheme. If you're an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen living in the Bailiwick before 31 December 2020, you and your family members can apply to our local EU Settlement Scheme. Further information is available at www.gov.gg/brexit'
