The EU Settlement Scheme is a system for EU citizens (also citizens of Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein) and their family members living in the UK to obtain immigration status after the end of the transition period on 31 December 2020.
Generally, EU citizens (also citizens of Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein) and their family members living in the UK on 31 December 2020 are eligible for the scheme and can apply for either pre-settled or settled status, which grants them the right to live and work in the UK.
The benefits of obtaining pre-settled or settled status include the right to work, access public services, enrol in education and claim benefits.
To apply for pre-settled or settled status, applicants must complete an online application form and provide evidence of their identity and residence in the UK.
The deadline for applying for EU Settlement Scheme status is 30 June 2021.
If applicants fail to apply by the deadline, they may face restrictions on their rights to live and work in the UK.
No fees are associated with applying for pre-settled or settled status, and applicants need not pay the Immigration Health Surcharge to access NHS healthcare.
Applicants must provide evidence of their identity, residence and relationship to an EU citizen to apply for pre-settled or settled status.
Pre-settled and settled status holders have the right to work, access public services and benefits, enrol in education and access healthcare in the UK.
Pre-settled status is valid for 5(five) years.
Settled status is valid indefinitely, i.e., equal to Indefinite Leave to Remain.
An Indefinite Leave to Remain is a right granted to a settled status holder.
Pre-settled and settled status holders have the same access to benefits, healthcare and employment as any other resident of the UK.
Applicants with settled status may be able to apply for British citizenship, depending on their circumstances.
EU citizens living in the UK before the end of the transition period need to apply for pre-settled or settled status by 30 June 2021.
A family member of EU citizens living in the UK before the end of the transition period needs to apply for pre-settled or settled status by 30 June 2021.
Typically, there is no difference between pre-settled and settled status regarding access to benefits, healthcare and employment.
Pre-settled and settled status holders can travel in and out of the UK.
Applicants will receive a notification when their application has been successful.
If an application is refused, applicants can request an Administrative Review of the decision or appeal.
Applicants’ personal data will be used to assess their application for pre-settled or settled status.
Pre-settled and settled status holders must meet certain requirements in order to retain their status, such as a limited uninterrupted absence in the UK.
Generally, there are no specific benefits and services that pre-settled and settled status holders are not entitled to, including child benefits and certain types of social housing.
Pre-settled holders can renew their status after its expiration if they satisfy certain conditions. Settled status holders have their status indefinitely.
The Home Office has enforcement powers about EU Settlement Scheme applications, including the power to refuse, cancel or revoke pre-settled or settled status.
If a holder moves to another country, holders typically lose their status.
If an application is refused, applicants can request an administrative review of the decision. There is a right of appeal if applicants feel that their application for pre-settled or settled status has been unfairly refused.
Immigration Advice and other support are available for applicants needing help with their pre-settled or settled status application.
The implications depend on the individual’s personal circumstances.
Pre-settled or settled status may have implications for a holder’s education and career prospects, and holders may be entitled to the same rights as British citizens, depending on their circumstances.
Pre-settled and settled status holders have the right to access public services in the UK and may be entitled to the same rights as British citizens, depending on their circumstances.
Pre-settled and settled status holders who are EU citizens may be entitled to vote and stand for local elections, depending on their circumstances.
Holders may be able to sponsor family members for entry to the UK.
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