As the UK has left the European Union, many EU citizens and their family members are required to apply for immigration status to remain living in the UK. The EU Settlement Scheme is a special application process set up by the Home Office to help EU, other EEA, and Swiss citizens and their family members to stay in the UK after Brexit.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of applying to the EU Settlement Scheme, including how to apply, what documents you need, and how to view and prove your immigration status.
Who Can Apply to the EU Settlement Scheme?
The EU Settlement Scheme is open to EU, other EEA, and Swiss citizens who are living in the UK, as well as their family members. This includes:
- EU citizens who have lived in the UK for at least 5 years
- EU citizens who have a valid residence permit or biometric residence card
- Family members of EU citizens who are living in the UK, including spouses, civil partners, and children under 21
- Family members of EU citizens who are living outside the UK, including spouses, civil partners, and children under 21, if they are joining their family member in the UK
How to Apply to the EU Settlement Scheme
To apply to the EU Settlement Scheme, you will need to fill out an online application form and provide supporting documents. Here are the steps to follow:
- Check if you need to apply: Check if you need to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme by visiting the GOV.UK website. You can use the online eligibility checker to see if you need to apply.
- Collect your documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents, including:
- Your valid passport
- Proof of identity (such as a national ID card or a biometric residence card)
- Proof of residence in the UK (such as a utility bill or a tenancy agreement)
- Proof of your relationship with your family member (if applicable)
- Fill out the application form: Fill out the online application form, which will ask for your personal details, immigration history, and proof of identity and residence.
- Submit your application: Submit your application online and pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Wait for a decision: Wait for a decision on your application. You will receive an email with the outcome of your application.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply?
To apply to the EU Settlement Scheme, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Your valid passport
- Proof of identity (such as a national ID card or a biometric residence card)
- Proof of residence in the UK (such as a utility bill or a tenancy agreement)
- Proof of your relationship with your family member (if applicable)
- A valid biometric residence card (if you have one)
How to view and prove your immigration status
Once you have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme, you to view and prove your immigration status online. Here’s how:
- Sign in to the online service: Sign in to the online “View and Prove” service using your eVisa credentials.
- View your status: View your pre-settled or settled status, which will show your immigration status and any conditions that apply.
- Print your status: Print your status or save it to your device for future reference.
What is the Difference Between Pre-settled and Settled Status?
The EU Settlement Scheme offers two types of immigration status: pre-settled and settled status.
- Pre-settled status: This is for EU citizens who have lived in the UK for less than 5 years. With pre-settled status, you will be able to stay in the UK for 5 years, after which you can apply for settled status.
- Settled status: This is for EU citizens who have lived in the UK for 5 years or more. With settled status, you will be able to stay in the UK indefinitely and have the same rights as British citizens.
What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?
The deadline for most people to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme was 30 June 2021. If you missed the deadline, you may still be able to apply, but you will need to have a good reason for making a late application. You can check if you can make a late application on the GOV.UK website.
Conclusion
Applying to the EU Settlement Scheme can seem difficult, but with this step-by-step guide, you should be able to navigate the process with ease. Remember to gather all the necessary documents, fill out the application form carefully, and submit it online.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact the EU Settlement Scheme Resolution Centre for assistance.
FAQs
Who can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme?
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens, as well as their family members, can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK after Brexit.
What is the deadline to apply?
The deadline for most people to apply was 30 June 2021. However, some people can still apply after this date if they have a good reason for making a late application.
What is the difference between pre-settled and settled status?
Pre-settled status allows you to stay in the UK for 5 years, while settled status gives you permanent residence in the UK.
How do I apply to the EU Settlement Scheme?
You can apply online or by post. You will need to provide proof of identity and residence in the UK.
What documents do I need to provide?
You will need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport, and proof of residence in the UK, such as a utility bill or bank statement.
Can I apply if I’m not in the UK?
Yes, you can apply from outside the UK. However, you will need to provide proof of your identity and residence in the UK.
