EU, EEA and Swiss citizens

The EU Settlement Scheme protects the rights of EU, EEA and Swiss citizens who were living in the UK — and their family members.

✓ Last checked against gov.uk: July 2026
EU Settlement Scheme

Settled and pre-settled status

For citizens of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein — and their family members.

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Free to apply

It's free to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme. Beware of any site charging a fee.

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Pre-settled status

For those with less than 5 years continuous UK residence. It's now extended by 5 years just before expiry, and may convert automatically to settled status.

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Settled status

Granted after 5 years' continuous residence. Live, work and study in the UK as long as you like — and it's a route to citizenship.

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The main deadline was 30 June 2021 — but you can still apply late with reasonable grounds, if you already hold pre-settled status and are applying for settled status, or if you're a joining family member. Check your situation on gov.uk.

What status gives you

Your rights are protected: you can work or study in the UK, access benefits and services you're eligible for (including free NHS healthcare), and rent a property in England. New arrivals without EUSS rights use the points-based system instead — students apply for a Student visa like other international applicants.

Need a hand?

EU student planning UK study?

We'll check whether the EUSS or a Student visa applies to you, then handle the university side end to end.

Book a free consultation