As the United Kingdom (UK) has officially left the European Union (EU), the rights and status of EU citizens residing in the UK have become a topic of significant concern. One of the key issues is the requirement for Comprehensive Sickness Insurance (CSI) and its role in obtaining settled status. This article will delve into the intricacies of EU citizenship, settled status, and the role of comprehensive sickness insurance in this context.
Understanding EU Citizenship and Settled Status
EU citizenship is granted to any person who is a national of an EU member state. This status provides various rights, including the right to move and reside freely within the EU. However, with the UK’s departure from the EU, EU citizens living in the UK must now apply for settled status to continue living there without any restrictions.
Settled status is a form of immigration status in the UK that allows EU citizens who have lived in the UK for a continuous five-year period to stay in the UK indefinitely. This status also grants them access to public funds and services, and the ability to apply for British citizenship.
The Role of Comprehensive Sickness Insurance
Comprehensive Sickness Insurance (CSI) is a form of health insurance that covers the full range of health risks. For EU citizens living in the UK, having CSI has been a requirement under EU law to lawfully reside in the UK as a self-sufficient person or student.
However, the role of CSI has become a contentious issue in the context of applying for settled status. This is because the UK government did not widely enforce the requirement for CSI, leading many EU citizens to be unaware of its necessity. As a result, some EU citizens who did not have CSI may now face difficulties in obtaining settled status.
CSI and Settled Status: The Current Scenario
Under the EU Settlement Scheme, the UK government has stated that they will not require evidence of CSI for granting settled status. This decision was made to ensure that EU citizens residing in the UK are not penalised for the lack of enforcement of the CSI requirement in the past.
However, this does not mean that CSI is no longer relevant. EU citizens who are planning to stay in the UK for a long period should consider obtaining CSI to ensure they are covered for any health risks. Moreover, having CSI could potentially make the process of applying for settled status smoother.
Key Points to Remember
- EU citizenship grants the right to move and reside freely within the EU. However, with the UK’s departure from the EU, EU citizens living in the UK must apply for settled status to continue living there without restrictions.
- Settled status is a form of immigration status in the UK that allows EU citizens who have lived in the UK for a continuous five-year period to stay in the UK indefinitely.
- Comprehensive Sickness Insurance (CSI) is a form of health insurance that covers the full range of health risks. For EU citizens living in the UK, having CSI has been a requirement under EU law.
- Despite the UK government stating that they will not require evidence of CSI for granting settled status, EU citizens planning to stay in the UK for a long period should consider obtaining CSI.
Conclusion
The role of Comprehensive Sickness Insurance in the context of EU citizenship and settled status is complex and has been a source of confusion for many EU citizens living in the UK. While the UK government has stated that they will not require evidence of CSI for granting settled status, it is still advisable for EU citizens to obtain this insurance to ensure they are covered for any health risks. As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for EU citizens in the UK to stay informed about any changes to their rights and requirements.
