Challenges for UK Live Event Businesses Sending Non-EU Citizen Staff to Work in the EU

However, since the UK's departure from the European Union, UK-based live event companies face significant challenges when deploying their non-EU citizen staff to work on events within the EU. We discuss the primary hurdles faced by these companies and proposes potential solutions to navigate the complexities of work permit requirements

Work Permit and Visa Requirements

The biggest challenge for UK live event agencies is ensuring their non-EU citizen staff obtain the necessary work permits and visas to work legally in the EU. Each EU country has its own immigration rules and regulations, making the process complicated and time-consuming. The solution lies in engaging immigration specialists who are well-versed in EU immigration laws. They can provide guidance on the specific requirements for each country, assist with visa applications, and help companies navigate the intricacies of work permit procedures.

Sponsorship and Employer Obligations

Sponsoring non-EU citizen staff for work permits in the EU can be burdensome for UK event companies. They must meet sponsorship requirements and fulfil employer obligations, which include demonstrating the unavailability of qualified EU candidates and complying with local labour laws. To address this challenge, companies can establish partnerships with local organizations or production companies within the EU. Collaborating with these partners allows the sharing of resources, expertise, and sponsorship responsibilities, thereby reducing the administrative and financial burden on individual UK companies

Post-Brexit Legal Changes

Post-Brexit legal changes have added complexity to work permit requirements for non-EU citizen staff. The end of free movement between the UK and the EU has resulted in stricter immigration controls. UK live event companies must stay informed about changing regulations and be proactive in adapting to new requirements. Investing in legal advice, attending industry-specific seminars and workshops, and engaging with industry associations can help companies stay up to date with the latest developments, ensuring compliance and mitigating potential work permit challenges

Planning and Timelines

Obtaining work permits and visas for non-EU citizen staff involves lengthy processes that require careful planning and adherence to timelines. It is crucial for UK live event companies to factor in the additional time required for visa processing and plan event schedules accordingly. Companies should consult immigration specialists at the earliest stages of event planning to ensure they have a clear understanding of the necessary timelines and documentation requirements. Early engagement will help avoid last-minute complications and enable smooth and timely work permit applications for their non-EU citizen staff

The challenges faced by UK live event companies in sending their non-EU citizen staff to work on events in the EU are significant but not insurmountable. By seeking expert guidance, establishing partnerships, staying informed about changing regulations, and prioritizing meticulous planning, companies can navigate the complexities of work permit requirements and continue to benefit from the diverse talent pool that enhances the vibrancy of the live event industry.