Immigration and Asylum
EU citizens and their families should not rely on the old European residence card rules when planning a current application. SJS can advise on settled or pre-settled status, eligible joining family members and difficulties with an existing application. We start with your residence history and the status already held by each person.
Understanding your next steps
An extension of pre-settled status and a grant of settled status are different things. Residence and absences can affect the position. We can review the records, any Home Office messages and the evidence relevant to moving to settled status.
The general deadline for most initial applications passed in 2021, but some people can still apply under specific provisions. Joining family members and late applicants have their own requirements. A family relationship or EU nationality alone does not establish eligibility now.
The Surinder Singh route is closed to most new applicants. Limited provisions remain for some people with existing or previous pre-settled status or a qualifying EU Settlement Scheme family permit. We can review the relevant dates, residence history and documents to identify whether those provisions apply. This is separate from an Article 8 human rights application.
A clear way forward
Provide passports, any EU Settlement Scheme decisions, application references, family permits and the relevant family member's status.
We review UK residence dates, absences and when the relevant relationship began, together with any reason for a late application.
We explain whether an application, further evidence, a status correction or a challenge to a decision needs consideration and agree the work.
Planning ahead
There is no Home Office application fee for the EU Settlement Scheme. Any SJS legal fees will be explained separately, together with possible costs for translations or obtaining documents.
Contact us promptly about a refusal, an approaching deadline or difficulty proving status. The date of arrival and the type of application can matter. Do not assume an old general deadline applies to every family member.
Read our published Price Guide, then contact us to confirm the work you need and the costs involved.
View Price GuideUseful to know
Possibly, but only where the relevant provisions allow it. Some applicants have a later deadline; others must establish reasonable grounds for applying late.
No. They are different statuses. Automatic extensions or conversion processes do not remove the need to understand your current status and the applicable residence requirements.
It is closed to most new applicants, but limited provisions remain for some people with existing or previous pre-settled status or an EU Settlement Scheme family permit. Applications made before 9 August 2023 may also still be considered. Bring your status decisions and any family permit so the position can be checked.
Irish citizens do not generally need EU Settlement Scheme status to live in the UK. Their family members may have a different position, which should be checked separately.
General information about UK immigration. Contact us for advice about your circumstances.
SJS Solicitors · Balham
