Settled and pre-settled status

The EU Settlement Scheme is closed to most new applicants, but late applications are still possible where there are reasonable grounds for the delay, and applications continue from family members joining relatives already in the UK.

Pre-settled status holders are now generally granted automatic extensions, and many are converted to settled status automatically where the Home Office can confirm continuous residence. That automation does not reach everyone, and gaps need to be dealt with by application.

Settled status normally requires five years of continuous residence, with absences of no more than six months in any twelve-month period, subject to permitted exceptions for important reasons and for Covid-related absences in defined circumstances.

Evidence of residence can include employment, tax, tenancy, utility, medical and education records. Where residence was not documented — for example during periods of study, caring responsibilities or self-employment — the record needs building deliberately.

A late application must show reasonable grounds for missing the deadline. Accepted grounds have included being a child whose parent did not apply, serious medical conditions, care or abusive relationships, and a genuine and reasonable misunderstanding of the requirement to apply.

The explanation should be specific and evidenced. It is the part of the application that determines whether it is considered at all.