EU Settlement Scheme Changes: What You Need to Know




Are you an EU citizen living in the UK? If so, you'll need to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme by June 30, 2021, to continue living in the country after Brexit.
The scheme has been in place since March 2019, and over 3 million people have applied so far. However, there have been some recent changes to the scheme, so it's important to make sure you're up to date.
The main changes are as follows:
* The deadline for applications has been extended from March 31, 2022, to June 30, 2021. This is good news for those who haven't applied yet, but it's important to start the process as soon as possible.
* The fee for applying has been waived. This means that you can now apply for free, regardless of your immigration status.
* The rules for family members have been relaxed. Family members of EU citizens can now apply for the scheme even if they are not resident in the UK.
These changes make it easier than ever for EU citizens to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme. However, it's important to note that the scheme is not a guarantee of residency. If you do not meet the eligibility criteria, you will not be granted settled status.
To apply for the EU Settlement Scheme, you will need to:
* Be an EU citizen or the family member of an EU citizen.
* Have been resident in the UK before December 31, 2020.
* Meet the eligibility criteria for settled or pre-settled status.
You can apply online or by post. If you apply online, you will need to use the government's online application form. If you apply by post, you will need to download and fill out the paper application form.
Once you have applied, you will need to wait for a decision. The government aims to make a decision on your application within six months. If your application is successful, you will be granted settled or pre-settled status.
Settled status means that you have the right to live, work, and study in the UK permanently. Pre-settled status means that you have the right to live, work, and study in the UK for a period of five years.
If you are not eligible for the EU Settlement Scheme, you may be able to apply for another type of visa. You can find more information about your options on the government's website.
It's important to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme before the deadline. If you do not apply by June 30, 2021, you may lose your right to live in the UK.
For more information on the EU Settlement Scheme, please visit the government's website.