Brexit Update – EU Settlement Scheme

If you are an EU citizen, and want to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021, you (and your family) can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme.

Following a pilot phase, the scheme will open in full on 30 March 2019 and the Prime Minister recently confirmed that all applications will be free of charge:

"I can confirm today that when we roll out the scheme in full on 30 March, the government will waive the application fee so that there is no financial barrier for any EU nationals who wish to stay. And anyone who has or will apply during the pilot phase will have their fee reimbursed".

If your application is successful, you’ll be given either settled or pre-settled status and will be able to continue living and working in the UK after 30 June 2021.

If you have lived in the UK for a continuous period of 5 years you will most likely be granted settled status, which means you can stay in the UK as long as you like.

If you do not have 5 years’ continuous residence, you will most likely receive pre-settled status – allowing you to stay in the UK for a further 5 years to be eligible to apply for settled status.

Our handy infographic sets out the key dates and important points that Employers and Employees should note. These dates are on the basis that there is a deal. If we leave the EU without a deal the deadline for all applications under the EU Settlement Scheme will be 31 December 2020 and guidance should be sought.

For further information please contact a member of our Employment & Incentives Belfast team.

Date published: 30 January 2019