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  • Last checked: 02/04/2022

    Brexit: how EU nationals and their family members resident in the UK can stay there after 31 December 2020

    If you are an EU national, you and your family have to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to stay in the UK.

    What is your situation?

    I lived legally in the UK for at least 5 years before​ 31 December 2020

    If you are an EU national and have lived legally in the UK for at least 5 years by 31 December 2020, you qualify for permanent residence.

    In principle, you and your family members will continue to have permanent residence after 31 December 2020. This includes non‑EU family members.

    However, you must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme in the UK to be granted a new residence status. The UK will issue you with a residence document in digital form.

    I lived in the UK legally for less than 5 years before​ 31 December 2020

    If you are an EU national, you and your family members can in principle stay in the UK under the same ​conditions.

    This includes non‑EU family members.

    Find out more on residence rights

    However, you must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme in the UK by 30 June 2021 to be granted a new residence status. The UK will issue you with a residence document in digital form.

    I need help

    If you think that your rights under EU law are not being respected and you need advice, contact our assistance service.

    If you want to complain, you can report it to the UK Independent Monitoring AuthorityOpen as an external link​.

    See also:

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