A Third of EU Citizens in UK Report Discrimination by Public Bodies Post-Brexit

Published: 01 October ‘2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

A significant portion of European Union (EU) citizens living long-term in the United Kingdom continue to experience discrimination and barriers in accessing public services and their legal rights, according to a new report released by the country’s statutory Brexit watchdog. The findings highlight persistent challenges faced by EU nationals even five years after the UK formally exited the European Union, underscoring ongoing concerns about equality, integration, and access to public services.

The survey, conducted by the Independent Monitoring Authority (IMA), a body established under the UK’s Withdrawal Act 2020 to safeguard citizens’ rights, reveals that over a third of EU citizens report experiencing discrimination by public bodies. These include interactions with local authorities, the Home Office, healthcare providers, and other institutions responsible for ensuring access to fundamental rights such as work, travel, and social welfare.

According to Miranda Biddle, Chief Executive of the IMA, the survey paints a complex picture of citizens’ experiences. “Five years on from Brexit, the survey results support our current understanding that whilst awareness of rights is increasing, barriers in accessing those rights remain for some citizens. It is also likely that the type of issues being faced by EU and EEA EFTA citizens will only continue to evolve in complexity,” she said. The IMA has been closely monitoring these trends since 2021, the first full year the UK was outside the EU.

The Brexit process, which formally concluded in January 2021, disrupted the lives of an estimated 7.1 million people from the EU, the European Economic Area (EEA), and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, including Norway. Many of these individuals hold either settled or pre-settled status in the UK, allowing them to live, work, and access public services legally. Yet, despite these protections, EU citizens continue to face practical and systemic barriers.

The survey reveals that one in five EU citizens reported difficulties in exercising their rights, including the right to work, travel freely in and out of the country, and receive equal treatment in public services. The difficulties reported range from bureaucratic obstacles to outright discrimination, with some respondents citing negative experiences in healthcare, housing, and employment. Many expressed confusion about the processes required to maintain or claim their legal rights, particularly concerning family members and children.

A striking finding from the 2025 Citizens’ Rights Survey is that nearly four in ten respondents had not applied for settled status for their child, often due to misconceptions about citizenship. Among these respondents, more than 70 percent incorrectly believed that their child was automatically entitled to British citizenship. This lack of awareness highlights gaps in communication and support, particularly for families navigating post-Brexit residency requirements.

In addition to challenges related to settlement status, the survey uncovered a significant perception of discrimination in professional recognition. Approximately a quarter of respondents reported that their professional qualifications—from fields such as accountancy, engineering, healthcare, and architecture—were not being recognized in the UK. This has led to frustration among skilled EU nationals who are unable to practice their professions fully, limiting career opportunities and integration prospects.

Healthcare and public service access also emerged as key areas of concern. Respondents reported feeling discriminated against by General Practitioners (GPs), hospitals, local authorities, and central government agencies including the Home Office and Border Force. Distrust of public institutions was particularly notable among older respondents, with only 61 percent stating they trusted these bodies to protect their rights. This level of skepticism raises questions about the effectiveness of public outreach and the capacity of institutions to build confidence among EU citizens.

Travel and mobility rights remain another significant area of concern. More than half of those surveyed indicated that they wanted the IMA to ensure that they could travel freely without worry or concern. The ability to maintain family connections, pursue education opportunities abroad, and participate in international work assignments remains central to EU citizens’ sense of security and inclusion in the UK.

The IMA emphasized that while awareness of rights among EU citizens has grown over the years, practical barriers persist, particularly when dealing with complex bureaucratic systems. Respondents highlighted difficulties accessing timely support, understanding official requirements, and navigating administrative procedures. Many expressed concern for future generations, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding children’s rights under the Withdrawal Agreement and ensuring equitable treatment in education, healthcare, and social welfare systems.

The report also draws attention to the wider societal and economic implications of discrimination and barriers. Limitations on professional recognition, travel, and access to public services not only affect individual livelihoods but also hinder broader economic participation and social cohesion. For example, skilled professionals whose qualifications are not recognized contribute less effectively to critical sectors, from healthcare to engineering, ultimately affecting both community wellbeing and economic productivity.

The findings of the IMA’s survey have prompted calls for targeted interventions. Respondents stressed the need for clear guidance, accessible support services, and proactive communication from government bodies to ensure that all EU citizens can exercise their legal rights without fear of discrimination. Biddle emphasized that safeguarding these rights is essential for social inclusion, equality, and the UK’s obligations under international agreements.

In response to the report, the Home Office has been approached for comment but has yet to release an official statement. The watchdog’s findings highlight the ongoing challenges faced by EU citizens despite legislative protections, reinforcing the need for continuous oversight and responsive policy measures.

The situation underscores the long-term consequences of Brexit on the lives of millions of residents who have contributed to UK society for decades. From maintaining family unity to securing professional advancement and accessing healthcare, EU citizens continue to navigate a complex post-Brexit landscape that requires both legal clarity and institutional support.

Experts note that the findings are likely to influence future policy discussions, particularly as the UK government prepares for potential reviews of immigration, residency, and professional accreditation systems. Ensuring that EU nationals feel protected and respected is not only a legal obligation but also a social and economic necessity. Without adequate intervention, the barriers identified by the IMA risk further marginalizing this significant population, affecting community cohesion and the broader societal fabric.

The survey highlights the critical role of independent oversight bodies like the IMA in monitoring the rights and experiences of EU citizens. By documenting discrimination, identifying gaps in service provision, and advocating for systemic improvements, the IMA provides a necessary check on government institutions and contributes to transparency and accountability in post-Brexit Britain.

As the UK continues to navigate its post-Brexit era, the IMA’s report serves as a sobering reminder that formal legal rights alone are insufficient without robust mechanisms for enforcement, awareness, and support. Both policymakers and service providers face an ongoing challenge to bridge the gap between legislation and lived experience, ensuring that EU citizens can fully participate in and contribute to British society without fear of discrimination or disadvantage.

The findings also have implications for public perception and intercultural relations. Addressing discrimination and improving access to services for EU citizens is critical not only for individual wellbeing but also for fostering trust and cohesion within communities. Ensuring equitable treatment in education, healthcare, and professional fields will reinforce social stability and highlight the UK’s commitment to fairness and inclusion in the post-Brexit era.

In conclusion, the IMA’s 2025 survey paints a comprehensive picture of the ongoing challenges faced by EU citizens living in the UK. While awareness of rights has increased since Brexit, discrimination, barriers to professional recognition, difficulties in accessing healthcare and social services, and gaps in understanding children’s rights persist. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated action, effective communication, and sustained oversight, ensuring that EU citizens can live, work, and thrive in the UK as equal members of society.