The EU Settlement Scheme will close to new applications as planned on Wednesday, 30 June 2021, it has been confirmed.
Recent figures reveal that the programme has received over 5.4 million applications to date – but thousands more applications could be outstanding.
Under the scheme, European Union, European Economic Area (EEA), and Swiss citizens who lived and/or worked in the UK before the end of the transition period can apply for permanent residency, providing they meet the relevant criteria to stay.
To receive a grant of status, the applicant must demonstrate that they are in the UK as a worker, student, or self-sufficient person, and provide a form of official ID (such as a passport or driver’s licence) and their National Insurance (NI) number, if they have one.
After 30 June 2021, a new digital system will be launched to help employers check proof of settled status.
If you continue to employ a worker who has not received settled status, your business may be fined.
Commenting on the deadline, Kevin Foster, Minister for Future Borders and Immigration said: “Time is running out for those eligible for the EU Settlement Scheme to apply by the deadline of 30 June 2021, but a range of support is available for the most vulnerable or those that require extra support, so don’t delay in reaching out for help.
“Once you’ve applied you will be joining the millions who have secured, in UK law, the status needed to continue living and working here.”
More information about the EU Settlement Scheme can be found here.
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