Many people are asking what will happen after Brexit regarding the free movement of EU citizens working or planning to work in the UK.
Whether or not a transition deal is agreed.
Whether or not an EU citizen is in the UK before Brexit day.
Settled & pre-settled status
Introduced by the government to enable EU citizens and their family members to remain in the UK following Brexit. It has been confirmed the schemes will operate even in a ‘No Deal’ situation, although with some amendments.
Pre-settled status
Those who are resident in the UK by 31st December 2020 (or 29March 2019, in a no-deal situation), but with less than 5 years residence here, can apply for pre-settled status: Once they have been here for 5 years, they can apply for settled status.
Settled status
EU citizens and their family members who have lived in the UK for at least 5 years (and not been absent for more than 6 months in any 12-month period, with some exceptions) can apply for settled status. Those who already have an EEA Permanent Residence (PR) document will be able to easily switch into the new system, as long as they have not spent more than 5 years outside the UK since acquiring PR. Criminality checks will apply in all cases.
How to apply?
Applications will be made via an app, free of charge. EU citizens will receive an electronic notification of status. Non-EU family members will receive a biometric residence card (if you didn’t already have one)