Brexit and its consequences

If you are an EEA national and do not hold British citizenship, it’s crucial to take the necessary steps to secure your right to remain in the UK.

If you’ve been living in the UK for at least 5 years, you should apply for settled status, which grants you the right to stay and live in the UK permanently. This status will ensure you continue to live, work, and access services in the UK without restrictions.

If you’ve been in the UK for less than 5 years, you will need to apply for pre-settled status. Once you’ve accumulated 5 years of continuous residence, you can then apply for settled status. This process ensures that, over time, you can secure the permanent right to stay in the UK.

Alternatively, you may be considering applying for British citizenship, which is another pathway to securing your long-term future in the UK. To do so, the first step is obtaining Permanent Residence (PR) after completing 5 lawful years in the UK as an EEA national exercising Treaty rights. This includes being employed, self-employed, a student, a self-sufficient person, or a jobseeker.

Once you’ve obtained your PR document, you’ll need to wait 1 year from the date the document is issued before you can apply for British citizenship. For example, if the date on your PR document is 05.05.2013, you would have been eligible to apply for citizenship from 05.05.2014.

The process of securing settled status or applying for British citizenship can seem complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our expert team of immigration lawyers can help you understand your options and ensure your application is prepared correctly, giving you the best chance of success. Contact us today to get started on your journey towards securing your future in the UK.