Supporting staff with EU citizenship

Through our website UCL and Brexit, you can find answers to FAQs and keep informed of our work informing the debate, strengthening our European partnerships and facilitating access to EU programmes.

We know that for many of you, the most pressing current decision is whether to apply for Settled Status for yourself and your family.

Between 15 November and 21 December, the government is running a second pilot to apply for Settled Status having completed the first pilot this summer. UCL staff are eligible to apply during this period and we will be making information sessions available for those wishing to explore this option in more detail. We will be in touch again with further details and how to register to attend closer to the time.

The full scheme should open from March 2019 to 30 June 2021 so if you decide not to apply during the pilot, you will still have the opportunity to do so at a later date.

To be granted Settled Status, your application will need to demonstrate that you have been living continuously in the UK for five years. EU citizens living in the UK for fewer years will be granted pre-Settled Status until the five year point is reached.

The application essentially involves providing evidence under three categories: Identity - the applicant will need to prove their identity; Eligibility - the applicant will need show that that they live in the UK; and Suitability (Criminality) - the applicant will need to declare that they have no serious criminal convictions.

We will email EU staff a link to the application form for the second pilot once the government makes it available for those wanting to apply for Settled Status before March 2019.

The fee to make an application through this second pilot is £65 and to further support those who wish apply, we will cover this cost on your behalf.  We are also continuing to make available an interest free immigration loan of up to £10,000 to staff which can be used for certain visa applications, NHS surcharge and immigration advice, further details can be found in our immigration loan guidance.

Should you have further questions, please contact our advisory team at eustaffqueries@ucl.ac.uk, although they are unable to give immigration advice.

Fiona Ryland
Executive Director, UCL Human Resources

What is the EU Settlement Scheme?

· EU Settlement will replace the current Treaty rights of EU citizens, which will cease to exist when the UK leaves the EU.

· There will be a transition phase until the end of June 2021 and EU citizens who are resident in the UK by 31 December 2020 will have until 30 June 2021 to apply for Settled Status.

· The EU Settlement Scheme will allow EU citizens and their close family members to continue to live and work in the UK. It will mean they are eligible for:

• Public services, such as healthcare and schools

• Public funds and pensions

• British citizenship, if you want to apply and meet the requirements.