Even though the United Kingdom formally left the European Union on January 31, 2020, the full effects of the transition have not fully come into the picture yet as the UK remains in the customs union and the EU single market until December 31.

From January 31, 2021, regardless of whether a post-Brexit trade deal is agreed or not, this cushion will be removed and the full impact of Brexit will be realised. Here is how UK citizens will be affected by the transition, as listed in a report by The Guardian:

Also Read | UK, EU agree to go ‘extra mile’ in search for post-Brexit deal

If there is no trade deal

Tariffs will be levied on companies for buying and selling goods across the Channel under World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. Apart from increasing costs for a range of goods, there is likely to be longer delays at ports. A trade deal could have helped make the process a little smoother. 

Free movement 

Regardless of whether a deal is agreed or not, free movement of people across the UK and the EU will end after December 31. The UK will implement a points-based immigration system for EU citizens. 

Also Read | Shortages, jams and shutdowns: UK readies for Brexit ‘no-deal’ chaos

UK state pensions

UK citizens living in the EU and drawing a state pension from the UK will receive an increased amount each year in line with the triple lock – the rate of inflation, average earnings or 2.5%, whichever is highest. People moving to the EU after January will still be able to draw their pension, but how much they will receive depends on the result of the ongoing talks. 

Healthcare

There will be no change as far as accessing healthcare is concerned for UK citizens currently living in the EU and EU citizens currently living in the UK. For people moving across the Channel after January 1, 2021, the situation is not clear. 

Driving to Europe

UK citizens will still be able to drive to Europe after January 1 but will need to show a green card to prove they are insured. Car insurance companies will provide the cards and drivers need to procure it a month before their travel plan.