Recent Changes to the EU Settlement Scheme: What You Need to Know
Posted by Rayhan Sheikh
from the Law category at
22 Feb 2025 02:54:23 pm.
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1. Automatic Extension for Pre-Settled Status Holders<o:p></o:p>
In a bid to provide added stability, the Home Office hasdeclared in May 2024. That holders of pre-settled status will be automaticallyextended the next two years of their status to five years. This means there isno further application or anxiety about a gap or lapse in legal rights forthose privileged with pre-settled status. Individual digital status will beupdated, and the message will be sent directly to the Home Office.<o:p></o:p>
2. No Expiry Dates for Pre-Settled Status in DigitalProfiles<o:p></o:p>
Starting in 2024, individuals with pre-settled status willnot have expiry dates on their digital profile when proving their status toothers, such as potential employers or landlords. All checks regarding Right toWork and Right to Rent are simplified and do not require follow-upverification, as long the individual remains in employment or tenancyagreement.<o:p></o:p>
3. Response to High Court Judgment<o:p></o:p>
The Home Office implemented these amendments following aHigh Court ruling in February 2023. Which decided that holders of pre-settledstatus should not lose their residency rights merely by failing to apply forsettled status prior to the expiry of their pre-settled status. This judgmentwas influential in forming the latest amendments to make the process fairer forEU citizens.<o:p></o:p>
4. Stricter Guidance for Late Applications<o:p></o:p>
New rigorous stipulations regarding late applications to theEUSS have been introduced by the Home Office in August 2023. This new guidance,which offers much more lucid examples of grounds acceptable for delays such asserious illness or being in an abusive relationship, now does insist thatevidence is given to support why the application was not made in the usual timeframe.<o:p></o:p>
5. Continued Adjustments and Future Updates<o:p></o:p>
These changes have become a part of ongoing work for thegovernment, which will continue to improve the EUSS so that EU citizens candemonstrate their rights in the UK as easily as possible.<o:p></o:p>
Recent reforms clarify the EU Settlement Scheme supportingcitizens in precarious situations. Please stay informed on anything new thatcould impact the rights and status of EU citizens, EEA citizens, and Swisscitizens in the UK. If unsure about status or needing assistance, consulting animmigration professional would always be a good idea.
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