Introduction
Are you navigating the complexities of the EU Settlement Scheme in the UK? This guide will help you understand your immigration status, whether pre-settled or settled, and outline the essential steps to take next. With the support of Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts, you can easily resolve any legal questions and ensure your rights are protected. Discover how to manage your status effectively and get the assistance you need—Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK!
If you’ve applied for the EU Settlement Scheme in the UK, you’ll receive a decision letter from the Home Office that informs you of your immigration status—either pre-settled or settled. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what to do next and how to manage your status effectively.
What to Do After Applying
While you’re waiting for your application decision, you can continue to live and work in the UK. To prove your rights, you can use:
- Your passport or national ID card.
- Your EU Settlement Scheme application certificate, which you should have received via email when you applied.
If you need to demonstrate your right to work to an employer, they can use the Employer Checking Service to verify your status.
Viewing Your Status
Once you receive your decision letter, you can check your status online through the GOV.UK website. Remember, if you’re from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, there won’t be a physical card for your status—everything is managed online.
Checking Your Child’s Status
If you have children who applied under the scheme, they will have their own online status. To view it, you’ll need the email address or phone number used during their application process.
Proving Your Right to Work or Rent
To show your status to a landlord or employer, you can generate a share code through the GOV.UK website. This code is valid for 30 days, so make sure it’s used within that timeframe. Your decision letter alone is not valid proof of your status.
If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly because of your status, especially if your employer or landlord checks your status again after July 1, 2021, consider reaching out to Contend’s legal expert chat for assistance, as this could be discriminatory.
What If You Think There’s an Error?
If you believe the Home Office has made a mistake regarding your status, you can fill out a form to correct the information. More details can be found on the GOV.UK website. For personalized guidance, you can also consult Contend’s legal expert chat.
Traveling to the UK
For EU, EEA, or Swiss Citizens
When entering the UK, you’ll need to show an identity document linked to your online status, such as your passport or national ID card. If you’re using a passport, you can use the eGates at airports.
For Non-EU Citizens
If you were granted pre-settled or settled status, you may have received a biometric residence card. Bring this card with you when you travel. If you haven’t received one, check if you can swap your existing residence card for an EU Settlement Scheme residence card. More information is available on the GOV.UK website.
Claiming Benefits
If You Have Settled Status
You can claim benefits just like UK citizens. At your Jobcentre interview, provide either a printed copy of your decision letter or a share code so they can check your status online.
If You Have Pre-Settled Status
You do not automatically qualify for benefits. You must demonstrate your “right to reside.” Bring evidence of your pre-settled status and any supporting documents, like payslips, to your Jobcentre appointment.
Keeping Your Status Updated
It’s crucial to keep your online status current. You need to update it if you:
- Replace your identity document (like an expired passport).
- Change your name.
- Change your contact details (email, phone number, or address).
You can update your status through your online UK Visas and Immigration account. If you experience issues or don’t receive confirmation of your updates, reach out to the EU Settlement Scheme Resolution Centre or consult Contend’s legal expert chat for help.
Transitioning from Pre-Settled to Settled Status
Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply to switch from pre-settled to settled status.
Trouble Accessing Your Online Status?
If you can’t access your online status due to lost email or phone number, or if you’ve changed your identity document, contact the EU Settlement Scheme Resolution Centre for assistance. For additional support, consider using Contend’s legal expert chat.
By understanding these steps and keeping your information updated, you can ensure a smoother experience with your EU Settlement status in the UK. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK, ready to assist you with any legal queries you may have.
For more info, check out some of our related articles:
