As the United Kingdom has officially left the European Union, EU citizens living in the UK are required to apply for a new immigration status to continue living in the country legally. This new status is known as the EU Settled Status. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on the key requirements for obtaining the EU Settled Status, the necessary documents, and how to update your passport for settled status. We will also discuss the evidence needed for settled status and the documents required for pre-settled status.
Understanding EU Settled Status
The EU Settled Status is a form of immigration status that allows EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens who have been living in the UK for a continuous period of five years or more to continue living in the UK. This status grants them the same rights as they had before Brexit, including access to public services, public funds, and pensions.
Settled Status Requirements
To be eligible for settled status, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, or a family member of one.
- You must have been living in the UK for a continuous 5-year period (known as ‘continuous residence’).
- You must not pose a serious threat to public security.
If you do not meet these requirements, you may still be eligible for pre-settled status.
Settled Status Evidence
When applying for settled status, you will need to provide evidence of your identity, your residence in the UK, and your relationship to an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen if you’re applying as a family member. Here are some examples of the evidence you can provide:
- Identity: A valid passport or national identity card.
- Residence: P60s, utility bills, bank statements, or a letter from your employer.
- Relationship: A marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or birth certificate.
Updating Your Passport for Settled Status
If you have been granted settled status, it is not mandatory to update your passport. However, it is recommended to do so to avoid any potential issues when travelling or proving your status. To update your passport, you will need to apply for a biometric residence permit (BRP) that shows your settled status.
Pre-Settled Status Documents
If you have not lived in the UK for a continuous 5-year period, you may be eligible for pre-settled status. The documents required for pre-settled status are similar to those for settled status. You will need to provide evidence of your identity and your residence in the UK. However, you do not need to prove that you have lived in the UK for 5 years.
Conclusion
Applying for EU Settled Status is a crucial step for EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens who wish to continue living in the UK post-Brexit. By understanding the settled status requirements, the necessary evidence, and how to update your passport for settled status, you can ensure a smooth application process. Remember, even if you do not meet the requirements for settled status, you may still be eligible for pre-settled status.
