The European Economic Area consists of the Member States of the European Union, together with Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway:

Nationals of Switzerland are also able to benefit from the generous rules with respect to immigration and related rights for EEA Nationals.
The rights of free movement and residence that EEA Nationals are able to benefit from are largely contained in Directive 2004/38/EC. The UK has transposed these rights into domestic law under the Immigration (European Economic Area) Regulations 2006. The central right that has been granted is the right to reside in the UK and work here without the need for any permit or visa.
Together with the extensive rights granted to EEA Nationals to move and reside freely within the EEA, family members have also been granted generous rights so that they can move and reside with the EEA National. The following members of your family have a right to move and reside with you:
• Your Spouse/ Civil Partner
• Your Children and Grandchildren aged under 21, and those of your spouse
• Your Children and Grandchildren that are dependent upon you, and those of your spouse
• Your Parents and Grandparents that are dependent upon you, and those of your spouse
Members of your household, as well as your dependents may also be able reside with you in the UK while you exercise your rights here.
It is important to note that Czech, Estonian, Hungarian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, Slovakian and Slovenian nationals must register under the Worker Registration Scheme. More information can be found here.
It is also important to note that most Bulgarian and Romanian nationals cannot work in the UK without the permission of the Home Office. More information can be found here.
The rules relating to the free movement and residence rights of EEA nationals and their relatives are generous but complex. If you would like assistance, please contact us.