Just before Christmas, a Brexit deal was made on Thursday after years of negotiations. After 1 January, our relationship with the United Kingdom will therefore be very different, but what do we find of that in everyday life?
On a personal level, the Dutch will not notice much of the Brexit. The free movement of people across borders will come to an end on 1 January. Until October you can still cross the border with an ID card, but after that you really have to show a passport.
It is becoming more difficult to live and work in the UK. A majority of the British wanted to restrict immigration and therefore supported the Brexit. From 1 January, therefore, there will be a point-based system whereby people who want to work in the UK will have to meet high standards.
Dutch people who already live in the UK can just stay there. If they live in the UK for more than five years, they can apply for settled status. This allows them to live, work, build a pension and use public services. Those who have not lived in the UK for so long can apply for a pre-settled status and convert it to settled status after a few years.
However, even if you stay in the Netherlands, you may notice the consequences of the Brexit, and in your wallet. Some goods may become more expensive, but more later.