EU Settlement Scheme Pre-Settled Status

The EU Settlement Scheme provides an opportunity for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens residing in the UK, along with their family members who established residence by 31 December 2020 (the end of the 'Withdrawal Period'), to secure their status after 30 June 2021 (the end of the 'Grace Period').

Granting of Pre-Settled Status

Eligible individuals who have not completed a continuous 5-year period of qualifying residence in the UK will receive Pre-Settled Status, granting them 5 years' limited leave. They can apply for Settled Status once they fulfill the 5-year residence requirement.

Eligibility for EU Settlement Scheme

To qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme Pre-Settled Status, you must satisfy UK Visas & Immigration that:

• Citizenship and Residence:

  • You are an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen; or

  • You are a family member of an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen; or

  • You have retained the right of residence through a relationship with an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen; or

  • Under other routes

• Residence Requirement:

  • You started living in the UK by 31 December 2020.

Joining Family Members

Joining family members of EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens must first apply for an EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit to enter the UK. They must then apply for Pre-Settled Status to continue residing in the UK.

Application Deadlines and Late Applications

• Initial Deadline: The application deadline was 30 June 2021. Applicants not eligible for Settled Status by this date could apply for Pre-Settled Status and subsequently apply for Settled Status after completing 5 years of residence.

• Late Applications: Late applications may be considered with reasonable grounds, as per updated guidance.

• Swiss Nationals: Swiss nationals can bring spouses or civil partners to the UK until 31 December 2025, provided the relationship began between 31 December 2020 and 31 December 2025.

Requirements for Joining Family Members' Pre-Settled Status

To qualify for Pre-Settled Status as a joining family member, you must satisfy UK Visas & Immigration that:

• You are the joining family member of a relevant sponsor; or

• You have retained the right of residence through a relationship with a relevant sponsor; and

• You are not eligible for Settled Status solely due to not completing a continuous 5-year qualifying period of residence.

Consider consulting an immigration lawyer for tailored advice based on your specific circumstances and application requirements.