EU Settlement Scheme

EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)

The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) was created to protect the rights of European citizens and their families after the UK left the European Union. At The McKenzie Friend, we provide expert, affordable guidance for individuals and families applying for, upgrading, or appealing decisions under this scheme.

What Is the EU Settlement Scheme?

The EU Settlement Scheme allows citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland — along with their eligible family members — to continue living, working, and studying in the UK after Brexit. Depending on how long you have lived in the UK, you will be granted either:

• Settled Status – if you’ve lived in the UK continuously for at least 5 years
• Pre-Settled Status – if you’ve lived in the UK for less than 5 years

Both statuses give you the right to live, work, and access public services in the UK. Holders of Pre-Settled Status can later apply for Settled Status once they complete 5 years of residence.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme if you are:

• An EU, EEA, or Swiss national living in the UK before 31 December 2020
• A family member (spouse, child, parent, or dependent) of someone who arrived before that date
• Holding or previously holding a residence card under EU law
• Born in the UK to parents with Settled or Pre-Settled Status

Evidence You’ll Need

The Home Office will require evidence of your identity and your residence in the UK. Typical documents include:

• Passport or national ID card (with a digital photo)
• Proof of UK residence (tenancy agreements, utility bills, or bank statements)
• National Insurance number (to verify employment records)
• Marriage or birth certificates for family members
• Supporting evidence for late applications or dependency

Our Process — How We Help You

1. Eligibility Review: We assess your personal and immigration history to confirm which route applies — Settled or Pre-Settled Status.
2. Document Preparation: We help you gather clear, compliant proof to support your application.
3. Online Application: Step-by-step assistance completing the Home Office form and identity verification process.
4. Evidence Upload: Guidance on submitting digital documents securely through the government portal.
5. Post-Decision Support: Help upgrading to Settled Status or appealing a refusal if required.

After You’re Granted Status

Once your status is approved, you’ll receive a confirmation letter and can prove your rights online via the UK government’s digital status system. It’s important to keep your passport details up to date, especially if you renew or change your document after applying.

Applying for British Citizenship

If you’ve held Settled Status for at least 12 months (or are married to a British citizen), you may be eligible to apply for British Citizenship. We’ll guide you through the requirements, application form, and supporting documentation for a seamless transition from EUSS to citizenship.

Why Choose The McKenzie Friend?

• Experienced guidance for EU Settlement Scheme applications
• Fixed-fee pricing with transparent service structure
• Support for late applications and refusals
• Step-by-step assistance — from form completion to digital verification
• Specialist support upgrading to ILR or British Citizenship

The McKenzie Friend provides guidance for EUSS applications and can refer clients to OISC-accredited immigration advisers for appeals or complex cases requiring legal representation.