Settled status in the UK allows individuals to live, work, and study without immigration restrictions. Following the UK’s departure from the EU in 2020 and the closure of the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) to new applications, it’s essential to understand the rights and implications of having settled status.
Rights with Settled Status
Those granted settled status can:
- Live and work in the UK indefinitely.
- Access healthcare, pensions, and other benefits.
- Leave the UK for up to five years without losing their status.
- Ensure that children born in the UK to settled individuals automatically receive British citizenship.
What is Settled Status?
Settled status is a form of indefinite leave to remain (ILR) granted to EEA and Swiss nationals and their families who have continuously resided in the UK for at least five years. Under the EUSS, successful applicants gain the right to access benefits and services, work, study, and rent property.
Application Process
To switch to settled status, applicants need:
- An identity document (passport, national ID card, etc.).
- A mobile number and email address.
- A National Insurance Number.
- Proof of residence, if necessary.
Pre-Settled Status
Individuals who have lived in the UK for less than five years may be granted pre-settled status. This status allows them to stay for five years, after which they must apply for settled status. Recent legal changes have eased the process for upgrading from pre-settled to settled status.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What to do if your application fails? You can request an administrative review for a fee of £80 if you believe there was an error in your application.
- Does settled status expire? While settled status allows indefinite residence, it can be lost if you leave the UK for more than five years.
- Can I apply for a British passport with settled status? You must be a British citizen to apply for a passport. Settled status allows you to apply for citizenship after meeting specific requirements.
- Can you get British citizenship with settled status? Yes, after one year of holding settled status (or immediately if married to a British citizen), you may apply for citizenship.
- What if you’ve missed the EU settled status deadline? Some individuals may still be eligible to apply through special circumstances. Many can verify their status with a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) using a free No-Time-Limit (NTL) application.
- Does settled status mean permanent residence? Yes, settled status grants the right to reside in the UK indefinitely, with the same rights as permanent residents.
- How long is settled status valid for? Settled status is indefinite but can be lost after five years of absence from the UK.
- What are the rules for settled status? Eligibility requires proof of five years of continuous legal residence in the UK.
Understanding these aspects of settled status is crucial for those looking to secure their residency and potentially transition to British citizenship in the future.