Guidance for UK businesses on rules for trading in services from 1 January 2021
The UK will no longer operate under the European Economic Area (EEA) regulations for the cross-border trade in services from 1 January 2021. This means that the rights and protections provided by the EU Directives and EU Treaty rights of freedom of movement and freedom of establishment will no longer apply to the UK.
UK businesses will no longer be treated as if they were local businesses. Services provided by UK businesses and professionals will be regarded as originating from a ‘third country’.
UK firms and service providers may face additional legal, regulatory and administrative barriers as a result.
Read more about:
Trade regulations
VAT on sales of digital services
Establishing and structuring your business
Business travel and entry requirements
Social security payments for employees
Recognition of professional qualifications
Data transfer and GDPR
Read also the Portugal country guide to find out about the potential legal, regulatory and administrative changes for UK businesses trading in services, from 1 January 2021.