EEA Family Application

EEA Family Applications

At The McKenzie Friend, we provide expert guidance for EEA and EU family members applying to live, work, or remain in the UK with their loved ones under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) or Family Permit route. We help you prepare strong, compliant applications to protect your family’s rights and keep you together in the UK.

Understanding EEA Family Applications

Family members of EU, EEA, or Swiss nationals who were living in the UK before 31 December 2020 may still be eligible to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme or for an EEA Family Permit. These applications ensure your legal right to live, work, and study in the UK alongside your EU relative.

Depending on your situation, you may apply as a:

• Spouse or civil partner of an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen
• Child or dependent relative of an EU/EEA citizen
• Parent or grandparent dependent on an EU citizen
• Extended family member (e.g. unmarried partner or relative in durable relationship)
• Retained rights applicant (where relationship has ended due to death, divorce, or domestic circumstances)

1. EUSS Family Permits (Outside the UK)

If you live outside the UK and want to join your EU or EEA family member who is already living in the UK, you can apply for an EUSS Family Permit. This visa is usually valid for six months, allowing you to enter the UK and then apply for Pre-Settled or Settled Status once you arrive.

We help you:

• Confirm eligibility for a Family Permit
• Prepare and submit your application online
• Gather required evidence of your relationship and residence
• Respond to Home Office queries or document requests

2. Family Members Already in the UK

If you are already living in the UK, you can apply directly for Pre-Settled or Settled Status through the EU Settlement Scheme as a family member of an eligible EU/EEA citizen. We assist you with verifying your relationship, continuous residence, and dependency evidence to meet Home Office criteria.

3. Retained Rights of Residence

If your relationship has ended (due to divorce, separation, or the death of your EU family member), you may still qualify to remain in the UK under retained rights of residence. Our team can help you assess eligibility and provide clear documentation to demonstrate your independence and continued residence.

Documents You’ll Need

• Valid passport or national ID card
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, or evidence of partnership)
• Proof of residence in the UK before 31 December 2020 (if applicable)
• Proof of dependency (financial transfers, shared bills, care evidence)
• Evidence of ongoing relationship (communication logs, shared tenancy, or photographs)

Late Applications — Don’t Panic

If you missed the EUSS or Family Permit deadline, you may still apply with a valid reason such as lack of awareness, health issues, or dependency on another family member’s status. We can help you prepare a persuasive explanation and collect supporting documents to strengthen your case.

Why Choose The McKenzie Friend?

• Experienced support with EUSS Family Permits and Settlement applications
• Step-by-step assistance with documentation and submission
• Affordable fixed-fee service with clear guidance at every stage
• Support for retained rights, dependency cases, and appeals
• Ongoing guidance towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British Citizenship

The McKenzie Friend offers immigration assistance and can refer clients to OISC-accredited advisers for complex or appeal-level cases requiring legal representation.