Automatic Extension to Pre-Settled Status

Under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), people from the EU (or a few other European countries) together with their family members could apply to continue living in the UK after Brexit. Those who had lived in the UK for less than five years were given pre-settled status.

Individuals with pre-settled status can apply to switch to settled status after they have lived in the UK for five continuous.  The application is free and makes it easier to demonstrate their right to work and rent in the UK. After having had settled status for 12 months, an individual can apply for British citizenship.

Since September 2023, those with pre-settled status who have reached the five-year threshold, but who are yet to apply to switch to settled status, will have their leave automatically extended by two years. This is intended to ensure that nobody with pre-settled status will inadvertently lose their right to stay in the UK simply because they forget to apply for settled status. The two-year extension is triggered shortly before an individual’s pre-settled status expires.

Lord Murray, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Migration and Borders, commented that “Automatic extension of pre-settled status ensures that many EU, other EEA and Swiss citizens and their family members in the UK can continue to make a hugely valued contribution to British society without fear of losing their immigration status by simply failing to apply for settled status.”

It is expected that the Home Office may also take steps in 2024 to automatically convert pre-settled status holders to settled status once they are eligible, without the need for an application. We will let you know if we hear anything further on this.

If you have any questions regarding the EU Settlement Scheme or your pre-settled or settled status, please get in touch at [email protected]