Settled Status (EU Settlement Scheme)

For Dutch nationals planning to move to the United Kingdom, understanding your residence rights post-Brexit is essential. Since Brexit, EU citizens no longer have automatic rights to live and work in the UK. The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) is the route for EU nationals to secure their residency status in the UK.

What is Settled Status (EUSS) and why do you need it?

Settled Status (under the EU Settlement Scheme) is the immigration status that allows EU citizens to stay in the UK after Brexit. It is intended for those who started living in the UK before 31 December 2020. Without this status, you may not be able to legally work, rent property, or access services in the UK.

Settled Status is for people who have lived in the UK for five years or more. If you have lived in the UK for less than five years, you can apply for Pre-Settled Status, which gives you temporary residence rights.

What is the difference between Settled Status and Pre-Settled Status?

Settled Status gives you indefinite leave to remain, meaning you can live, work, and study in the UK as long as you wish. Pre-Settled Status is temporary and is valid for up to five years. After five years, you can apply for Settled Status if you meet the requirements.

How do you apply for Settled Status (EUSS)?

You apply for Settled Status through the UK Home Office. The process is digital and usually completed via an app or online portal. Check the current rules with the Home Office before you start your application.

Steps:

1. Gather proof of identity (passport or ID card) and evidence of residence in the UK.
2. Fill out the online application form via the Home Office.
3. Upload your documents and submit your application.
4. Wait for the decision by email.

What documents do you need to provide?

You will need a valid passport or national ID card. You must also prove your residence in the UK, for example, with tenancy agreements, payslips, or utility bills. The Home Office may request additional evidence in some cases.

What happens if you don't apply for (Pre-)Settled Status?

Without (Pre-)Settled Status, you do not have legal residence rights in the UK. You may be unable to work, rent a home, open a bank account, or access healthcare. You could also be required to leave the country.

Where can you find more information or support?

For the most up-to-date information, check with the UK Home Office or official government sources. You can also contact the Dutch consulate or embassy in the UK. Always check the current rules with the Home Office for the latest updates and support with your application.

Can family members join you under the EU Settlement Scheme?

Yes, certain family members can join you in the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme, even after Brexit. Eligible family members include spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners (with evidence of a durable relationship), dependent children or grandchildren, and dependent parents or grandparents. The family relationship must usually have existed before 31 December 2020, except for future children (born or adopted after this date). Each family member must make their own application to the EUSS and provide evidence of their relationship to you. Check the current rules with the UK Home Office for the most up-to-date eligibility and application requirements.

Can you lose your Settled or Pre-Settled Status?

Yes, your Settled or Pre-Settled Status can be lost under certain circumstances. If you have Settled Status and spend a continuous period of five years outside the UK, you may lose your right to remain. For those with Pre-Settled Status, spending more than six months outside the UK in any 12-month period (with some exceptions for serious reasons) could lead to losing your status. Additionally, providing false information or committing certain criminal offences may also result in the loss of your status. Always keep your details up to date with the Home Office and check the current rules if your circumstances change.

Can you apply for British citizenship after Settled Status?

Having Settled Status is an important step if you wish to apply for British citizenship, but it does not automatically make you a citizen. After holding Settled Status for at least 12 months (unless married to a British citizen), you may become eligible to apply for naturalisation. The process includes meeting residency requirements, passing a language test, and demonstrating knowledge of life in the UK. Application fees and documentation requirements apply—check the current rules with the UK Home Office for detailed guidance, as requirements can change.

Read also

• Emigrating to the United Kingdom
• Cost of living in the UK
• UK visa after Brexit
• Complete Emigration Guide United Kingdom