What is the EU Settlement scheme?

The EU Settlement scheme is the UK’s government’s replacement for free movement regulations which permits EU nationals and their family members to relocate, work, and study in the UK. 

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If you’re an EU national or the family member of an EU national in the UK, you and your family must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021.

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You must apply to this scheme even if you have previously obtained evidence of permanent residence status. Citizens of the other EEA countries (Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) and Swiss nationals can also apply under the settlement scheme. To meet eligibility requirements, you must have started living in the UK by 31 December 2020, unless you are joining a close family member who is either already under the EU Settlement Scheme or is eligible and will apply before 30 June 2021.

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Who is impacted by changes to the EAA route?

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The EEA route is changing, if you are:

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• an EEA national residing in the UK or;

• the family member of an EEA national who is residing in the UK or, 

• if you wish to join your EEA National family member in the UK

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What happens after applying to the EU settlement scheme?

If the application is successful you will be registered as an EU citizen with settled or pre-settled status in the UK. The status you get will depend on the duration that you have been living in the UK once you have submitted the application.

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If your application is successful, you’ll get either:

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• settled status if you have lived in the UK for a continuous 5-year period or;

• pre-settled status if you have NOT lived in the UK for a continuous 5-year period

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Once you have been granted with settled or pre-settled status, you will be able to:

• Work in the UK

• Use the NHS for free

• Enrol in education or study in the UK

• Access public funds such as benefits and pensions if you’re eligible for them

• Travel in and out of the UK

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Get legal advice from immigration experts

At MSD Solicitors, we are experts in immigration matters, and we have supported thousands of satisfied clients to choose the appropriate immigration route. We understand how stressful it might be for individuals who are concerned about Brexit uncertainties. Our dedicated team can assist you in obtaining EU Settlement Status and ensuring that you retain your right to work in the UK even after 30th June 2021. We will provide expert legal advice to ensure that you are fully aware of your rights and requirements, based on your unique circumstances. ​

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