EU Settlement
EU Settlement Scheme
What is the EU Settlement Scheme?
The EU Settlement Scheme allows eligible EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens to apply for either Settled Status or Pre-Settled Status, based on their length of residence in the UK:
Settled Status:
- For EU citizens who have lived in the UK for 5 continuous years or more. This status allows you to remain in the UK indefinitely, with the same rights as before Brexit, including the right to work, study, and access healthcare.
Pre-Settled Status:
- For EU citizens who have lived in the UK for less than 5 years. This status allows you to remain in the UK until you reach the 5-year mark, at which point you can apply for Settled Status.
Who Can Apply for the EU Settlement Scheme?
The EU Settlement Scheme is open to:
EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens:
- If you are an EU, EEA, or Swiss national, you are eligible to apply for the scheme, provided you were living in the UK before the 31st of December 2020.
Family Members:
- Family members of EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens (including spouses, children, and extended family members) are also eligible to apply under the scheme, even if they are not from the EU.
Non-EU Citizens:
- If you are a non-EU citizen but are the family member of an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen living in the UK, you are also eligible to apply.
Eligibility Requirements for the EU Settlement Scheme
To be eligible for the EU Settlement Scheme, applicants must:
- Be an EU, EEA, Swiss, or eligible family member.
- Reside in the UK before 31 December 2020 (the end of the Brexit transition period).
- Provide evidence of residence in the UK (e.g., utility bills, tax records, or employment documents) for the required period.
- Be free from serious criminal convictions. Applicants who have committed serious criminal offenses may be refused.
How to Apply for the EU Settlement Scheme
Create an Account:
- The first step in applying for the EU Settlement Scheme is to create an online account through the official UK government website.
Complete the Online Application:
- You will need to fill out an online application form with details of your identity, residency history, and family members (if applicable). You will also need to provide personal information such as your passport or national identity card details.
Provide Evidence of Residence:
- You will need to provide evidence of your continuous residence in the UK. For those applying for Settled Status, this is usually for 5 years. If you have not lived in the UK for this long, you may apply for Pre-Settled Status instead.
Biometric Information:
- You may be asked to submit biometric data (e.g., fingerprints and photographs) as part of the application. This will depend on your circumstances.
Submit the Application:
- After completing the application and submitting the required documents, you can submit your application online.
Wait for a Decision:
- The Home Office will process your application. Processing times can vary, but you will typically receive a decision within a few weeks. If additional information is required, you will be contacted.
EU Settlement Status Types
There are two main statuses under the EU Settlement Scheme:
Settled Status:
- This is for individuals who have lived in the UK for 5 continuous years or more. It grants you the right to stay in the UK indefinitely and provides you with the same rights and benefits as before Brexit, including access to the National Health Service (NHS), benefits, and pensions.
Pre-Settled Status:
- This is for individuals who have lived in the UK for less than 5 years. Pre-Settled Status allows you to stay in the UK until you reach 5 years of continuous residence, at which point you can apply for Settled Status.
Benefits of the EU Settlement Scheme
Right to Remain:
- With Settled Status, you can remain in the UK permanently. With Pre-Settled Status, you can stay in the UK until you reach the 5-year mark.
Work and Study Rights:
- Those with Settled or Pre-Settled Status can work, study, and live in the UK without any restrictions.
Access to Healthcare:
- You will continue to have access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Family Reunification:
- Family members can apply for the scheme, allowing them to join their relatives in the UK.
Right to Travel:
- EU citizens with Settled Status can freely travel in and out of the UK without issues.
Why You Should Apply for the EU Settlement Scheme
Avoid Losing Your Rights:
- If you are an EU citizen, Swiss national, or a family member of an EU citizen living in the UK before the 31st of December 2020, you need to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme to ensure you maintain your legal rights.
Secure Your Future in the UK:
- The scheme allows you to continue living, working, and studying in the UK after Brexit. Failure to apply could lead to losing these rights.
How AK Immigration Services Ltd Can Help
At AK Immigration Services Ltd, we are dedicated to assisting you with the entire process of the EU Settlement Scheme application. Our expert services include:
- Eligibility Assessment: We will help determine whether you qualify for Settled or Pre-Settled Status based on your individual circumstances.
- Document Preparation: We assist you in gathering and submitting all the required documentation, ensuring that you meet the evidence requirements.
- Application Support: We help complete and review your online application, ensuring that all the information is accurate and compliant.
- Expedited Assistance: If your application requires urgent attention, we can offer expedited services to speed up the process.
- Advice on Appeals: If your application is rejected or delayed, we provide expert guidance on how to appeal or resubmit your application.
The EU Settlement Scheme offers EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens the opportunity to secure their rights in the UK post-Brexit. With AK Immigration Services Ltd by your side, you can ensure that your application is submitted correctly, on time, and without hassle. Get in touch with us today to get started on your path to securing your future in the UK.
