The current situation

The British government formally announced the intention of withdrawing from the EU on 29 March 2017, thereby triggering the process laid out in Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty. According to Article 50, from this point onwards the EU and UK have two years to negotiate Britain’s withdrawal. This period could be extended if all current member states agree to it. During negotiations, the UK remains a member of the EU and British citizens retain all their rights under EU law, including that of free movement. Thus the situation for British citizens will not change for at least two years. They are still EU citizens until the UK’s secession.

As for the longer term, it is impossible to forecast what the future relationship between the UK and the EU would be and what future trade treaties would include. Find more information for British citizens living and working in the Netherlands, as well as for businesses in the Netherlands employing Brits, here.

Information for businesses

Questions concerning Brexit on behalf of companies based in the Netherlands, or those interested in moving to or investing in the Netherlands, can be directed to amsterdam inbusiness.

Information for startups

Amsterdam-based startups founded by British entrepreneurs or employing British citizens, or those considering a move to Amsterdam, can contact StartupAmsterdam with any questions regarding the potential effects of Britain leaving the EU.

Information for British citizens

British citizens living and working in the Netherlands or planning to move to the Netherlands, as well as businesses that would be directly affected by any future policy changes, can contact the Brexit Information Point by calling +31 (0)20 254 7999 or dropping by the IN Amsterdam offices. 

Media enquiries

Journalists can contact Sebastiaan Meijer, spokesperson for Deputy Mayor Ollongren (Economic Affairs), at [email protected].