EU Settlement Scheme — eligibility/status guidance
Allows EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens and their eligible non-EEA family members who lived in the UK by 31 December 2020 to secure settled or pre-settled status.
Who this pathway suits
European citizens and family members with established UK residence prior to Brexit.
Eligibility at a glance
- Resident in the UK before 31 December 2020 (or joining an eligible resident family member)
- Settled status: 5 continuous years of UK residence (under 6 months absence in any 12 months)
- Pre-settled status: under 5 years residence (switch to settled status once 5 years reached)
How the process works
- Apply via EU Exit: ID Document Check app or online
- Verify National Insurance records or upload residence evidence
- Decision issued digitally
Documents you will typically need
- Biometric passport or national identity card, P60/council tax records proving continuous presence
What to keep in mind
Pre-settled status extensions are now applied automatically for 5 years by the Home Office.
Official source: GOV.UK — EU Settlement Scheme. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for EU Settlement Scheme — eligibility/status guidance
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