The UK government is still refining the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), more than three years after its deadline of 30 June 2021.
One of the most notable upcoming changes concerns eligible pre-settled status holders. Starting in 2025, the Home Office will introduce an automatic process to grant settled status, eliminating the need for individuals to submit a new application. This change aims to safeguard the immigration status of pre-settled status holders.
What are the upcoming changes in January 2025?
Starting January 2025, the Home Office will implement an automated system to transition eligible pre-settled status holders to settled status. Individuals approaching the expiration of their pre-settled status will receive an email notification informing them that their case is being reviewed. The initial automatic grants of settled status are anticipated to occur later that month.
Crucially, pre-settled status holders won’t need to take any action. If the Home Office can’t grant settled status through this process, individuals will be informed directly.
This phased rollout will expand throughout 2025, with additional pre-settled status holders automatically transitioned to settled status. The Home Office is also reviewing how to address cases where individuals no longer meet the eligibility criteria due to a break in continuous residence. Further guidance on these cases will be issued in due course.
To determine eligibility, the Home Office will conduct automated checks using government-held data to verify continuous residence. This approach mirrors the assessment used when individuals initially applied to the EUSS.
Understanding the EU Settlement Scheme
The EU Settlement Scheme enables EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals, along with their family members, who were residing in the UK by December 31, 2020, to obtain the immigration status necessary to continue living in the country.
The scheme was launched on March 30, 2019, with an initial application deadline set for June 30, 2021. Nevertheless, individuals with valid reasons for delayed applications or specific circumstances may still apply. Successful applicants receive a digital immigration status, commonly referred to as an eVisa.
According to Home Office statistics, as of September 30, 2024, over 8.2 million European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) applications had been submitted, with 8 million successfully concluded. Approximately 5.7 million individuals have now gained status under the scheme. Furthermore, over 540,000 vulnerable applicants have received assistance from government-funded organisations across the United Kingdom.
Advice for EUSS Status Holders
EUSS status holders are encouraged to update their digital status with any changes to their passport or national identity card details, as well as their contact information. This can be done through the ‘Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details’ service at the following link.
Support remains available for those navigating the scheme.
For tailored advice or assistance with EUSS applications, please contact Visa Positive