EU Settlement Scheme: Securing Your Status in the UK
The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) was introduced to protect the rights of EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens and their families living in the UK before the UK left the EU. If you were living in the UK by December 31, 2020, you can apply for settled or pre-settled status, allowing you to continue living, working, and accessing healthcare and benefits in the UK.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from eligibility to application, so you can confidently navigate the process.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from eligibility to application, so you can confidently navigate the process.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme if:
- You are an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, or a family member of one.
- You were living in the UK by December 31, 2020.
- You have not already been granted pre-settled or settled status.
The deadline for most applications was June 30, 2021, but you can still apply if you have reasonable grounds for missing the deadline, such as illness or being unaware of the scheme.
Settled vs. Pre-Settled Status
There are two types of status under the EU Settlement Scheme:
- Settled Status
- You can apply for settled status if you have lived in the UK for 5 continuous years by the time you apply.
- Settled status allows you to stay in the UK indefinitely and apply for British citizenship after 12 months.
- Pre-Settled Status
- If you have lived in the UK for less than 5 years, you can apply for pre-settled status.
- Pre-settled status allows you to stay in the UK for 5 years. After completing 5 years, you can apply for settled status.
What Are the Benefits?
With settled or pre-settled status, you can:
- Live and work in the UK.
- Access NHS healthcare.
- Enroll in education or continue studying.
- Access benefits and pensions if eligible.
- Travel in and out of the UK without restrictions.
How to Apply
Applying to the EU Settlement Scheme is simple and can be done online. Here’s what you need:
- Proof of Identity: A valid passport or national ID card.
- Proof of Residency: Documents showing your residence in the UK before December 31, 2020 (e.g., bank statements, utility bills, or employment records).
- Criminal Record Check: You will need to declare any criminal convictions, but minor offenses won’t affect your application.
- The application is free, and most decisions are made within 5 working days.
Late Applications
If you missed the June 30, 2021 deadline, you can still apply if you have a reasonable excuse, such as:
- A serious medical condition.
- A lack of awareness due to difficult circumstances.
- Being unable to apply in time due to COVID-19.
- It’s important to apply as soon as possible to secure your status.
Family Members
Here is a breakdown of the visa fees:
- Spouses and civil partners.
- Children under 21.
- Dependent parents or grandparents.
- Family members joining you after December 31, 2020, may still be eligible under the family permit route.
Conclusion
The EU Settlement Scheme offers a secure way for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens to continue living and working in the UK post-Brexit. Whether you qualify for settled or pre-settled status, applying is crucial to protect your rights in the UK.
If you need help with your application or missed the deadline, our team can guide you through the process and ensure your status is secured.
If you need help with your application or missed the deadline, our team can guide you through the process and ensure your status is secured.
