Though there is still uncertainty about the potential implications of Brexit and possibly even whether Brexit will happen at all, the Home Office have published a campaign this week to encourage EU nationals to apply early for settlement ahead of the full launch this Saturday (30 March 2019).
Immigration Minister Caroline Nokes said:
“It is my priority to make sure that EU citizens, who have built their lives here and who have contributed so much to our society, continue to feel welcome in the UK.
I want EU citizens to stay and to continue to call the UK their home and I would encourage all EU citizens to apply once the scheme goes live.”
The scheme is free and the new online application process promises to be a hassle free and simple process.
The scheme enables EU citizens to protect the rights they currently have in the UK. Applicants will only need to prove their identity, demonstrate their UK residence, and declare any criminal convictions.
Regardless of any Brexit deals, EU citizens will have until at least 31 December 2020 to apply.
For more information please visit the gov.uk website: https://www.gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families/applying-for-settled-status