The UK’s EU Settlement Scheme is a beacon for EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals, including their families, who made the UK their home before the close of 31 December 2020 – a significant date marking the conclusion of the ‘Withdrawal Period’. If you envision a life in the UK post the ‘Grace Period’, which ended on 30 June 2021, this guide provides in-depth insights.

Settled Status: Elucidating Eligibility
Having 5 consecutive, qualifying years of UK residency is your ticket to obtaining Settled Status, a permit for indefinite stay. Many applicants initially receive a Pre-Settled Status, progressing to Settled Status upon fulfilling the 5-year criterion. Those not yet eligible for Settled Status are generally granted Pre-Settled Status initially.

Family members who intend to join a relative from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland (provided they settled in the UK by 31 December 2020) aren’t left out. Typically, one must first seek an EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit, then apply for Pre-Settled Status. After a steady 5-year stretch in the UK, you can advance to applying for Settled Status.

Key Dates to Remember
The ‘Grace Period’ halted on 30 June 2021, making it the pivotal date for applications under the EU Settlement Scheme for qualified residents. If Settled Status seemed out of reach by this deadline, the path via Pre-Settled Status remained open, leading to Settled Status after a 5-year unbroken UK residency.

If you missed this critical date, there’s still a glimmer of hope. Under specific scenarios, late applications might be considered.

Decoding Settled Status
This prestigious status is extended to individuals who can solidly demonstrate a 5-year unbroken residency within the UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man. Securing this status means the UK is yours to call home indefinitely. Furthermore, this privilege allows an extended leave of up to 5 years outside the UK (or 4 for Swiss citizens) without renouncing the status.

Demonstrating Continuous Residence
To make your case, over a span of 5 continuous years, evidence that you’ve lived in the UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man for at least 6 out of every 12 months is vital. Noteworthy exceptions include significant life events such as childbirth, major illnesses, and mandatory military duty, among others.

Who Should Take the Plunge?
If you’re an EU, EEA, or Swiss national or hold relations to someone from these regions, applying is essential. Relationships of focus include spouses, civil partners, live-in partners, and blood relatives. Establishing proof of relationship sustainability prior to 31 December 2020 is typically paramount.

Advantages of Settled Status
This golden status unveils full-fledged rights to work, study, inhabit, avail NHS facilities, and undertake UK travels without restrictions.

Nitty-Gritties of Application
Despite the Home Office waiving off fees for Settled Status applications, brace for a processing duration of approximately 5 working days. Given the soaring demand, expect some application-processing hiccups and delays.

Hit a Roadblock?
A declined application isn’t the end of the road. Recourses like appealing to the First-tier Tribunal or an administrative review stand available.

Highwood Solicitors at Your Service
Highwood Solicitors, UK, is a vanguard in piloting EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens and their kin through the intricate web of the EU Settlement Scheme. Our accomplished immigration solicitors lend expertise on the scheme’s intricacies, aid in application drafting, and offer unwavering support during appeals.

To engage in a detailed discussion about your EU Settlement Scheme Settled Status application, reach out to our adept team at Highwood Solicitors on +44 (0) 1206523714 or drop a line in our web enquiry form. Your UK dream is closer than you think!