Civil rights after Brexit (voting and consumer rights)

The UK left the European Union on 31 January 2020. This process is often known as 'Brexit'.

We're now in a transition period (also known as the implementation period) that's likely to last until the end of December 2020. This means the UK is currently still following EU rules.

In January 2021 the transition period will end and our new relationship with the EU will begin. There will be effects on some areas of life in Scotland.

This may include changes to civil rights.

The UK is now in the Brexit transition period. This means many of the details about what Brexit will mean are not yet known. This page gives the latest facts, but it will be updated as more details are confirmed. Please keep checking back for new information.

Civil rights is a subject devolved to Scotland. These rights are protected under the Human Rights Act 1998 and in the Scotland Act 1998.

Voting and registration rights

There will be no change to who can vote, or register to vote, in Scottish Parliament and local elections in Scotland after Brexit.

Find out more about how you can register to vote.

Consumer rights

Your consumer rights will not change during the transition period, which is likely to last until December 2020.

If there is a 'no deal' situation, your consumer rights could change if you're buying products or services from an EU seller. Check the product's terms and conditions if you're not sure.

The UK Government has more information about consumer rights from 1 January 2021.

The European Commission has also produced a PDF factsheet on consumer rights in a 'no deal' situation.

More information

More details on civil rights in Scotland will be added to this page as new information on Brexit is available.

Meanwhile, you can get more information from:

The content on this site is correct as of today's date and is based on the information available at this time. Regular updates will be made as the Brexit process develops. In the event of a 'no deal', additional advice and information will be given on this site. Please continue to check back for updates.