Settled Status

Since the United Kingdom left the European Union, the EU Settlement Scheme has provided EU nationals and their family members a pathway to continue living and working in the UK. For those who have lived in the UK for at least five continuous years, settled status offers permanent residency and secures your right to remain in the UK indefinitely.

At Lawfinity Solicitors, we are experts in handling settled status applications, providing you with the support you need to gain permanent residency and build a secure future in the UK.

What is Settled Status?

Settled status allows you to stay in the UK indefinitely, with all the rights of a UK resident. This status is available to EU nationals and their family members who have lived in the UK continuously for at least five years. Once granted, settled status lets you:

• Live and work in the UK
• Access public funds, such as benefits and healthcare (NHS).
• Enjoy the right to family reunification.
• Travel freely in and out of the UK without restrictions.
• Eventually apply for British citizenship if you meet the required residency criteria.

Who Can Apply for Settled Status?

To apply for settled status, you must meet the following conditions:

• Residency Requirement: You must have lived in the UK for at least five continuous years. This is the minimum period to qualify for settled status.
• EU, EEA, or Swiss Citizenship: The scheme is available to citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland, along with their family members.
• No Serious Criminal Convictions: You must not have serious criminal convictions. The Home Office will assess this during the application process.

How to Apply for Settled Status

The process for applying for settled status is relatively straightforward and can be done online. Here’s how Lawfinity Solicitors can assist you:

1. Eligibility Assessment: Our team will assess whether you meet the five-year continuous residence requirementand whether you are eligible to apply for settled status.
2. Online Application Assistance: We will guide you through the online application process, ensuring you provide all the required details and supporting documents, such as proof of identity and residence.
3. Supporting Documents: You will need documents such as:
   • A passport or national identity card to prove your identity.
   • Evidence of continuous residence in the UK for 5 years (e.g., tenancy agreements, utility bills, or employment contracts).
4. Application Submission: Once your application is ready, we will help you submit it, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.

Benefits of Settled Status

Having settled status provides you with a range of benefits:

• Permanent Right to Stay: Settled status allows you to live and work in the UK indefinitely without the need to renew your status.
• Access to Public Services: You will have access to healthcare (NHS), public benefits, and other social services.
• Pathway to Citizenship: After holding settled status for at least one year, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship if you meet the required criteria, such as residency and language requirements.
• Freedom to Travel: You can travel in and out of the UK without worrying about losing your residency status, as long as you don’t stay out of the UK for more than two consecutive years.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once your settled status application is approved, you will be granted permanent residency. Your settled status will remain valid for life, as long as you do not leave the UK for more than two years consecutively.

If your application is refused, you may have the opportunity to challenge the decision through an administrative review, or in some cases, by appealing the decision.

Why Choose Lawfinity Solicitors for Your Settled Status Application?

At Lawfinity Solicitors, we provide expert advice and support throughout the entire settled status application process. Here’s how we can assist you:

• Comprehensive Eligibility Check: We’ll ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for settled status and guide you in gathering the necessary documents.
• Accurate Application Submission: Our team will make sure your application is error-free, avoiding any delays or complications.
• Appeal and Review Support: In the event your application is refused, we provide expert advice on challenging the decision through an administrative review or appeal

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Apply for Settled Status If I Have Lived in the UK for Less Than 5 Years?

If you have lived in the UK for less than 5 years, you may be eligible for pre-settled status, which allows you to stay in the UK while you complete the 5 years needed to apply for settled status.

2. How Long Does It Take to Process the Settled Status Application?

Typically, it takes a few weeks to process a settled status application, but it can vary based on individual circumstances and whether further documentation is required.

3. Can I Travel with Settled Status?

Yes, with settled status, you are free to travel in and out of the UK. However, be mindful that if you stay outside the UK for more than two consecutive years, you may lose your settled status.

4. What Happens If My Settled Status Application Is Refused?

If your settled status application is refused, you may have the option to challenge the decision through an administrative review or appeal. Our team can guide you through this process.

5. Can I Apply for British Citizenship After Getting Settled Status?

Yes, after holding settled status for at least one year, you may be eligible to apply for British citizenship, subject to meeting the residency and language requirements.

Contact Lawfinity Solicitors for Expert Settled Status Assistance

If you are an EU national or family member and need assistance with your settled status application, Lawfinity Solicitors is here to help. Our expert immigration lawyers will guide you through every step of the process and ensure your application is submitted accurately and on time.

Contact us today to start your journey towards securing settled status and permanent residency in the UK.