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EU Settlement Scheme Q&As

by | Feb 5, 2021 | News

Who should apply under the scheme?


You can apply if both:

  • You’re in the UK by 31 December 2020
  • You have family in the UK from the EU, EEA or Switzerland.

Also, those who have a permanent residence card will need to apply to the scheme as it will not be valid after 31 December 2020.

How long must EEA/Swiss nationals live in the UK to be eligible for the scheme?


Pre-settled status is for those who moved to the UK before 31 December 2020. You only need to prove you’ve lived in the UK for 1 day in the last 6 months to get it.

Settled status will be issued to qualifying EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who have proof of 5+ years of residence in the UK. You can spend up to 2 years outside the UK without losing your pre-settled status.

If you get a UK State pension, you’ll automatically get settled status when you apply to the scheme.

What rights will I have after receiving the status?


Getting your status will prove your right to:

  • Stay in the UK for more than 3 months
  • Work
  • Study
  • Use the NHS
  • Claim the state pension
  • Rent a home

What do I need to apply?

  • An identity document – passport, national identity card, biometric residence card or permit
  • A digital photo – you can take a selfie during the application
  • Your national insurance number or proof of how long you’ve lived in the UK
  • A mobile phone number
  • An email address
  • Proof of your relationship if you’re applying for a child or another family member

Will I have to keep my record up to date?


It is important to keep your record up to date. You must update your online status on Gov.uk if:

  • You renew or replace the identity document you used to apply
  • You change your name
  • You change your telephone number or email address – your contact details need to be up to date so you can view or share your status

How can I view my status?


After you get your decision letter, you can view your status online on gov.uk. If you are from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you will not get a physical copy proving your pre-settled or settled status. Your status is only online.

What to do if you were awarded an incorrect status?


You might not get the result you were expecting if:

  • The automatic check can’t find your record
  • You have gaps in your national insurance record – for example if you didn’t work for some time

If you’re having problems finishing your application contact your nearest Citizens Advice

After you apply to the EU Settlement Scheme, the Home Office will email you a decision letter to tell you what status they’ve given you. They’ll contact you if they need more information form you before they make decision.

If you didn’t get the status you wanted, or refused a status at all, your decision letter from the Home Office will tell you why.

How long does it take to get the status?


The processing times of the application can vary. You can contact the EU Settlement Scheme Resolution Centre to check the progress of your application.