Introduction
The EU Settlement Scheme has been one of the main process for EU citizens living in the UK after Brexit, providing them with the opportunity to secure their residency status post-Brexit. In this article, we will delve into the new changes to Pre-Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme. We aim to provide a clear and comprehensive guide to help you understand these changes and their implications.
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Overview of the EU Settlement Scheme
The EU Settlement Scheme was introduced to allow EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens, as well as their family members, to continue living in the UK after Brexit. The scheme offers two types of status: pre-settled and settled status.
| Type of Status | Description |
|---|---|
| Pre-settled Status | Temporary residency status for those who have lived in the UK for less than 5 years |
| Settled Status | Permanent residency status for those who have lived in the UK for 5 years or more |
What Is EU Pre-settled Status?
Pre-settled status is a type of temporary residency granted to EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens, as well as their family members, who have been living in the UK for less than five years. This type of status allows individuals to remain in the UK and eventually apply for settled status once they have completed the required five-year continuous residence period.
Key Features of EU Pre-settled Status
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | Valid for up to 5 years |
| Extension | Can be extended automatically under certain conditions (as discussed in the following sections) |
| Eligibility for Settled Status | Requires 5 years of continuous residence in the UK |
| Rights | Right to live, work, and access healthcare and other public services in the UK |
Requirements for Swiss Citizens to Have Their Partners Join or Stay in the UK
If you’re a Swiss national and wish to have your spouse or civil partner join you in the UK, or stay with you if they’re already there, here are the requirements they must meet:
- Timeline of Relationship:
- Your relationship should have begun after December 31, 2020.
- Additionally, your relationship must be established by December 31, 2025.
- Current Status:
- You must still be in a valid and continuing relationship with your partner at the time you apply.
In essence, ensure that your partnership is firmly established within the specified timeframe and remains valid when filing your application.
What Eligibility Criteria do You Need to Meet for Pre-settled Status?
To qualify for pre-settled status, applicants must meet specific criteria, such as the following:
- Beginning of Residency in the UK: Applicants for pre-settled status must have started living in the UK before 31 December 2020.
- Continuous Qualifying Period: All applicants must also not have been absent from the UK for more than 6 months in any 12-month period, however, there are certain exceptions for specific circumstances which will allow for a longer absence period, such as, medical emergencies and exceptional circumstances.
- Family Members: Family members of eligible individuals for EU pre-settlement can also gain this status if they meet the necessary requirements.
New Changes to Pre-settled Status
On 21 May 2024, the Home Office announced significant changes to the EU Settlement Scheme, particularly affecting those who already hold pre-settled status. These changes are primarily aimed at simplifying the visa extension process and ensuring that individuals do not lose their status due to any administrative complications.
Summary of New Changes
- Automatic Extensions: Pre-settled status will be automatically extended by five years instead of the previous two years.
- Digital Status Updates: The expiry date of the pre-settled status will be removed from any digital profiles used for employment and housing checks.
- Right to Work and Rent Checks: Employers and landlords will not need to conduct further ‘right to work’ and housing checks if the individual’s status is automatically extended.
These changes reflect the ruling in the case of the Independent Monitoring Authority for the Citizens’ Rights Agreements v Secretary of State for the Home Department [2022] EWHC 3274. The Independent Monitoring Authority (IMA )raised concerns about the initial automatic extension approach, which then subsequently prompted these new updates.
Automatic Extensions of Pre-settled Status
One of the most significant changes that was announced is the automatic extension of pre-settled status. This change addresses major concerns raised by the Independent Monitoring Authority for the Citizens’ Rights Agreements (IMA) and aims to simplify the process for pre-settled status holders.
The IMA had expressed their concerns that the initial two-year extension might not adequately protect the rights of pre-settled status holders. The new five-year extension aims to provide greater stability and reduce the administrative burden on individuals and third parties.
Key Changes to Automatic Extensions
Automatic Extension Duration
- Previously, pre-settled status holders could have their status automatically extended by two years.
- Under the new changes, this extension period has been increased to five years.
Notification Process
- Pre-settled status holders will be notified directly about the automatic extension, ensuring they are aware of their updated status without needing to reapply.
Official Home Office Statement
“The process will be automated by the Home Office and reflected in the person’s digital status. They will be notified of the extension directly. This will ensure that nobody loses their immigration status if they do not apply to switch from pre-settled to settled status.”
Proving Your Right to Live in the UK Permanently: Settled and Pre-Settled Status
Settled Status: A Clear Pathway
With settled status, you’ll have a straightforward way to establish your right to permanently reside in the UK. This status provides you with an official acknowledgment, simplifying the process of proving your residency.
Pre-Settled Status: Meeting Certain Criteria
If you hold pre-settled status, you can also secure your right to remain permanently under specific conditions:
- Residence Before Brexit: You should either be from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein and have started living in the UK by December 31, 2020. Alternatively, you could be a family member of someone who meets this criterion.
- Five-Year Living Proof: Demonstrate that you have lived in the UK for five years. During this period, you should have been:
- Employed or actively seeking work for up to three months,
- Engaged in study programs, or
- Self-sufficient.
Benefits of Settled Status
Having settled status not only confirms your permanent residency but also facilitates your application for British citizenship, provided you meet eligibility requirements.
By understanding these pathways and their requirements, you’ll be better prepared to prove your right to live in the UK permanently.
Home Office Announcement
“The Immigration (Leave to Enter and Remain) (Amendment) Order 2024, which came into force on 21 May 2024, confirms that pre-settled status will not lapse unless someone has been absent from the UK for five years without returning to the UK.”
Implications for Pre-settled Status Holders
- More Flexibility: This change provides greater flexibility for pre-settled status holders who may need to spend extended periods outside the UK.
- Eligibility for Settled Status: Despite the extended lapse period, individuals must still adhere to the continuous qualifying period to become eligible for settled status. Absences exceeding six months in a year could disrupt the qualifying period.
Example Scenario
| Scenario | Impact |
|---|---|
| Absent for 6 months in a 12-month period | Continuous residence remains intact |
| Absent for 7 months in a 12-month period | Continuous residence period is broken |
Transitioning from Pre-settled to Settled Status
Transitioning from pre-settled to settled status is a key step for EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens who want to secure their long-term residency in the UK. The recent changes to the EU Settlement Scheme have helped streamline this process, but certain requirements still need to be met.
Eligibility for Settled Status
To be eligible for settled status, will need to have completed a continuous qualifying period of five years of residence in the UK. This means they have not been absent from the UK for more than six months in any 12-month period, with a few exceptions.
Requirements for Settled Status
- Continuous Residence: Five years of continuous residence in the UK, starting before 31 December 2020.
- Absences: No absences of more than six months in any 12-month period, except for specific reasons, such as:
- One period of up to 12 months for an important reason like childbirth, serious illness, or study.
- Compulsory military service.
Application Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Check Eligibility | Ensure you have completed five years of continuous residence. |
| Gather Documents | Collect proof of residence, such as utility bills, bank statements, or pay slips. |
| Submit Application | Apply through the official EU Settlement Scheme portal. |
| Await Decision | The Home Office will review your application and notify you of the decision. |
Key Dates and Deadlines
Understanding the key dates and deadlines associated with the EU Settlement Scheme is crucial to avoid any potential issues with your status.
Key Dates regarding Pre-Settled Status
| Date | Significance |
|---|---|
| 31 December 2020 | Deadline to establish residence in the UK for eligibility under the scheme. |
| 30 June 2021 | Initial deadline for applications to the EU Settlement Scheme. |
| Ongoing | Continuous qualifying period must be maintained to transition from pre-settled to settled status. |
Rules for Spending Time Abroad with Settled Status in the UK
If you’ve been granted settled status in the UK, it’s vital to understand the guidelines for spending time outside the country to ensure you don’t lose your status.
General Rules
- Maximum Duration: You can be away from the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man for up to five consecutive years without jeopardizing your settled status.
- Re-entry Period: By re-entering the UK at any point during these five years, you essentially reset the clock, allowing for another potential five-year absence.
Special Provisions for Swiss Citizens
- Duration for Swiss Citizens: Swiss nationals and their family members can spend up to four continuous years outside these territories without losing their status.
- Family Members: It’s important to note that family members are not required to be Swiss citizens to benefit from these provisions.
- Re-entry and Reset: Similar to the general rule, returning to the UK during this four-year period allows Swiss citizens and their family members to start a new four-year duration abroad.
Understanding these rules helps ensure that you maintain your settled status while enjoying the flexibility of international travel or temporary relocation. Always keep track of your absences to avoid any issues with your status.
How to Bring Family Members to Join or Stay with You in the UK
If you’re considering having your family join you in the UK, or remain here with you, here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility for Family Members
Your family can join or stay if all the following criteria are satisfied:
- Residency Requirement: You must have been residing in the UK by December 31, 2020.
- Established Relationship: Your relationship with your family member should have started by December 31, 2020. Exceptions apply if they are children born or adopted after this date.
- Current Relationship Status: The relationship must be ongoing when they submit their application.
- Status Conditions: You should hold either settled or pre-settled status.
Application Process
- Your family members will need to go through their own application process. It’s crucial they fulfill all the necessary conditions to be eligible.
This concise guide prioritizes a successful application by adhering to these key requirements. By ensuring each step is met, you can facilitate their transition to life in the UK with you. For detailed assistance, it may be beneficial to consult resources that specialize in immigration services, such as third-party organizations or immigration advisors.
Conclusion
The changes to pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme bring significant improvements, particularly in terms of automatic extensions and more flexible absence rules. These changes are designed to protect the rights of pre-settled status holders and ensure that their residency in the UK remains secure without unnecessary administrative burdens.
Frequently Asked Questions for Pre-Settled Status (FAQ)
1. What is the main change to the automatic extensions of pre-settled status?
The main change is that pre-settled status will now be automatically extended by five years instead of two years. Furthermore, the expiry date will be removed from digital profiles used for employment and housing checks.
2. How does the new lapse condition affect my pre-settled status?
Pre-settled status will now lapse only if you are absent from the UK for five years (or four years for Swiss nationals) without returning. This gives you more flexibility compared to the previous two-year rule.
3. What should I do if I missed the initial application deadline for the EU Settlement Scheme?
If you missed the initial deadline, you can still submit a late application if you have reasonable grounds, such as medical reasons or lack of internet access.
4. How can I prove my continuous residence in the UK?
To prove continuous residence, you can use documents such as utility bills, bank statements, or pay slips that show your presence in the UK over the required period. Ensure these documents cover each year of your stay without significant gaps.
5. What if my digital status does not reflect the automatic extension?
If your digital profile does not show the automatic extension, contact the Home Office for clarification and update your records.
Contact Us for More Information:
For expert advice and assistance regarding the EU Settlement Scheme, contact Primus Solicitors or complete the enquiry form on our website.
