Non-EEA citizens who desire to journey to the UK to join or accompany an EEA citizen relative can avail of the EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit. The same applies for those wanting to join family members in Northern Ireland, naturalised British citizens, or UK citizens who resided with them in another EU nation before 31 December 2020.

Eligibility Criteria for the EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit

For a successful application, ensure you meet the following:

1. You’re joining an EEA citizen relative who either has Settled or Pre-Settled Status or is awaiting a decision.
2. You’ll be with the EEA citizen in the UK or arriving within 6 months of application.
3. The familial relationship began before 31 December 2020.

Updates on Family Members of British Citizens

Post 8 August 2023, the EUSS Family Permit ceased accepting applications for family members of qualifying British citizens (via the ‘Surinder Singh’ route) or primary caregivers of British citizens (‘Zambrano’ route). Existing applicants on these routes or those approved by 8 August 2023 can still apply to the EU Settlement Scheme.

For professional guidance, reach our team of immigration solicitors at Highwood Solicitors on +44 (0) 1206523714 or use our enquiry form.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible family members include:

• Spouses of EEA citizens.
• Civil partners of EEA citizens.
• Durable partners of EEA citizens.
• Children (including grandchildren and great-grandchildren) or dependent parents (including grandparents and great-grandparents) of the EEA citizen or their spouse or civil partner.

Proof of relationship establishment before 31 December 2020 is required.

Definition of Relevant EEA Citizen

Relevant EEA citizens are:

• EEA or Swiss nationals with ‘pre-settled’ or ‘settled’ status, or awaiting a decision under the EU Settlement Scheme.
• Irish citizens eligible for ‘pre-settled’ or ‘settled’ status.
• Eligible Northern Ireland residents meeting the ‘pre-settled’ or ‘settled’ status criteria.
• British citizens with EEA or Swiss citizenship residing in the UK before obtaining British citizenship.

EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit vs EEA Family Permit

The EEA Family Permit is now closed. Instead, eligible candidates should apply for EUSS Family Permits. Pending EEA Family Permit applications and appeals submitted before 31 December 2020 will continue to be processed under specific EU Exit Regulations.

Application Essentials and Validity

• Apply for this permit only from outside the UK.
• There’s no fee, and you’re exempt from the Immigration Health Charge.
• Post 01 April 2021, permits are valid for 4 months.

For continued UK residency beyond your permit’s validity, apply to the EU Settlement Scheme. Application to the scheme was due by 30 June 2021. However, family members arriving post 01 April 2021 have a 3-month window to apply.

How Highwood Solicitors Can Support You

Highwood Solicitors, known for client-centric services, assists EEA nationals’ family members in relocating to the UK, particularly through the EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit route. Whether you need detailed insights, an independent evaluation, or assistance in application and appeal processes, our adept immigration solicitors are ready to guide. We’re dedicated to offering transparent, reliable immigration advice, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.