The EU Settlement Scheme has been open since 30 March 2019. More than 3 million have already been granted status and EU, other EEA and Swiss citizens, and their family members still have more than 15 months before the deadline of 30 June 2021 to apply.

The number of applications received in February 2020 was 235,800. Overall, the total number of applications received up to 29 February 2020 was more than 3.3 million (3,343,700). As at 29 February 2020 almost 3 million (2,998,300) have been concluded. Of these, 58% were granted settled status and 41% were granted pre-settled status. Of the remaining applications, 19,100 received a withdrawn or void outcome, 6,800 were invalid and 300 were refused. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/eu-settlement-scheme-statistics-february-2020.

Applicants only need to complete three key steps – prove their identity, show that they live in the UK, and declare any criminal convictions.

What impact has Coronavirus had on the EU Settlement Scheme?

Some of the support services and application routes have temporarily changed for the EU  Settlement Scheme. However, individuals can continue to apply using any laptop or mobile device and they can still use the “EU Exit ID Document check app” to complete the identity stage of their application.

While applications continue to be processed, during this challenging time they will take longer than usual. A range of support continues to be available online, by email and by telephone for those who have questions or need help applying.

The Home Office is keeping this situation under constant review and will endeavour to reinstate support services and application routes to their original capacity in line with public health guidance.

What support is available?

There continues to be a range of support available online, by email and by telephone for those who have questions or need help applying for the EU Settlement Scheme.

The Settlement Resolution Centre will continue to respond to email enquiries and provide a call-back function when required. However, it is following all the latest Government advice to work from home where possible and will no longer be answering inbound telephone calls.

There are 57 voluntary and community sector organisations across the UK that can offer assistance online, over the telephone or by email to help more vulnerable or at-risk people to apply. Please check with the individual organisations for further details.

Additional support is available for those who do not have the appropriate access, skills, or confidence to apply online through Assisted Digital, which can offer assistance over the telephone.

Communications materials have been translated into 26 languages and alternative formats can also be requested.

Is the postal route open?

The postal route for submitting identity evidence is currently suspended. All documents already posted will be processed and returned as quickly as possible.

The ID document scanner locations are also suspended at this time following the latest public health guidance to protect staff.

Individuals can still use the “EU Exit ID Document check app” to complete the identity stage of their application.

Please get in touch with our Immigration team if you need any assistance.