Thursday 25 August 2016

EU nationals from Eastern Europe applying for British nationality

More people from Eastern Eurpope applying for British nationality

More EU nationals in particularly from the Eastern Europe is applying for British nationality is on the rise.

Government figures released in May reveal there are 5.3million non-British people living in the UK – three million of those who originate from the EU.

But the referendum result could lead to an increase in migrants seeking to claim British citizenship before a deal for Brexit is finalised.

Former Immigration Minister Phil Woolas predicted as many as 500,000 Eastern Europeans could rush to the UK before Britain formally leaves the EU.

Barbara Drozdowicz, who is applying for a British passport, said she feels let down by the Government for not providing guarantees that EU citizens already living in the UK can stay.

Ms Drozdowicz, who is director of the East European Advice Centre, said: "This is not what we would expect from the British state, quite frankly.

"I mean this is not how Britain works and this is not the sort of values we would expect.

"We are quite positive that everything will be fine, but on the other hand there is a high level of anxiety."

Theresa May has so far refused to provide assurances for EU citizens living in the UK.

Electrician Mirek Maciag, who has lived in Britain for 10 years, said he feels “uncomfortable” after the referendum result.

Mr Maciag, whose child attends a British school, said he is also applying for UK citizenship.

He said: “It feels uncomfortable. Me and most people I know have stopped spending money here.

"Because if I have to leave I'm taking my money - I'm selling my house and I'm gone.

"There is no clear information about what's happening so we're just waiting.

"No one knows but to avoid future problems the best way is to get citizenship."


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