The deadline for applications for the EU settlement scheme in the wake of Brexit is fast approaching.
Applications are due in by Wednesday, June 30.
Here's everything you need to know about what the scheme is, who needs to apply, how long the application will take and more.
What is the EU Settlement Scheme?
The settlement scheme means that EU citizens living in the UK can apply to stay here in the wake of Brexit and the end of free movement between Britain and countires in the European Union.
Free movement between the UK and the EU ended on December 31 2020.
This means that EU citizens can no longer move freely to the UK and vice-versa.
Who should apply for the settlement scheme?
If you are an EU citizen who does not have British citizenship and wants to continue living in the UK after June 30 2021, you should apply for the settlement scheme in the UK.
In order to be eligible to apply, you must have moved to the UK before December 31 2020.
What documents do you need to apply?
You need:
- proof of identity
- proof of residence in the UK
How long does the form take to complete?
If you have all the relevant documents at hand, the form should take 15-20 minutes to complete.
You may have to wait in a virtual queue after clicking "Apply".
📢 There are just 7 days until the EU #SettlementScheme deadline of 30 June.
— Home Office (@ukhomeoffice) June 24, 2021
Apply TODAY if you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen or their family member (and resident in the 🇬🇧 by 31 December).
➡️ https://t.co/2ta1NkpJ5a pic.twitter.com/wboQ9Pyf1G
What happens if you miss the deadline?
Late applications will be accpeted only if an individual has "reasonable grounds" for the delay.
Reasonable excuses have been listed by the Home Office and include being a child who's parents didn't realise they needed an application, lacking mental or physical capacity, care and support needs and being in an abusive or controlling relationship.
What's the difference between settled and pre-settled status?
People who have lived in the UK for a continuous five year period should be granted settled status.
People who have not lived in the UK for five years in a row but moved here before December 31 2020 will get pre-settled status.
Settled status means that you can live outside the UK for up to five years without losing your status, while pre-settled status means you can live outside the UK for two years without losing your status.
How long will it take the Home Office to process my application?
Processing applications will usually take up to 5 working days, however there could be delays due to the high numbers of applications currently being processed.
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