The EU Settlement Scheme was open from 30 March 2019 to 30 June 2021 to all EEA citizens meeting eligibility criteria.
Late applications to the scheme can still be submitted. Individuals must make an application under Appendix EU and provide evidence with their application setting out the reasons for the delay.
In 2025, the Home Office introduced a new process to automatically convert eligible pre-settled status holders to settled status, without them making a further application.
From April 2026, pre‑settled status holders will be automatically granted settled status where tax and benefits data confirms at least 30 months’ UK residence in the most recent 60 month period.
Those with indefinite leave to enter/remain in the UK or have British or Irish citizenship do not need to apply.
EU Settlement Scheme holders do not need to apply for an eVisa.
Permanent resident documents are no longer valid. Those who have settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme can apply for British citizenship.
Verifying EU Settlement Status
The process of verifying a candidate’s EU Settlement Status will be completed by HRSS during the Pre-employment checking stage.
Before HRSS can verify a candidate’s EU Settlement Status, the candidate must provide a valid Home office Share Code via the Amiqus Digital Pre-employment Checking (DPEC) system.
Further guidance
For more guidance on the EU Settlement Scheme, please visit:
Stay in the UK ('settled status'): step by step - GOV.UK
EU Settlement Scheme: caseworker guidance - GOV.UK
Employer's guide to right to work checks: 26 June 2025 (accessible) - GOV.UK