There are just two days remaining to apply for the EU Settlement Scheme ahead of the 30 June 2021 deadline.
The government has said it will not extend the scheme beyond the 30 June deadline under any circumstances. Oxford City Council is urging eligible residents to apply immediately.
It also wants to reassure people that help and support is available and that local partners with expertise in guiding applicants through what can be a confusing and stressful process have provided information in different languages.
Help is also available by email, phone, WhatsApp or text for anyone seeking immediate advice, guidance or assistance.
Who can apply?
Any EU citizen who was living in the UK before 11pm on 31 December 2020.
Who needs to apply?
European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) or Swiss citizens – and their family members – who were resident in the UK by 31 December 2020 need to apply.
Even those who have lived in the UK for a long time or have a permanent resident document still need to apply. Children also need to have their own application to secure settled or pre-settled status.
What will I get?
Those who have been in the UK for up to five years will get pre-settled status if eligible. Those who have been in the UK for five years or more get settled status.
What if I don’t apply?
If eligible residents do not apply before the 30 June deadline, they could lose their right to live, work and access NHS healthcare in the UK.
European Union citizens living in the United Kingdom who do not file their application before the deadline will be given a 28-day warning by immigration enforcement officials to apply for post-Brexit settled status or face losing some of their rights.
What help is available?
Residents who require assistance with their application can access further support through the Oxford-based charity Asylum Welcome. Their service, Europa Welcome, can help residents who need support with their application or are unable to make an application themselves.
The Europa Welcome service from Asylum Welcome is designed specifically to help EU citizens get settled status in the UK.
It has produced a video which is available in:
- Romanian
- Portuguese
- Spanish
- Italian
- Tetum
Trained and dedicated volunteers, supported by an experienced lawyer, guide clients through the process from start to finish. The team can provide independent and confidential advice with EUSS applications. Europa Welcome offers face-to-face appointments under COVID-safe conditions and video appointments. Translation is available if needed.
Statement
“From talking to Asylum Welcome and spending time with their team this week, I know many, many people are coming forward for assistance and advice. I would like to thank Asylum Welcome and organisations across the city for their excellent work in supporting people and communities during this stressful and uncertain time.”
“One of the most important messages we want to get across to people is that by seeking help and contacting the council and organisations, you will not be reported to immigration services, the police or the Home Office. Oxford City Council and all our partner organisations do not subscribe to the government’s Hostile Environment. We are here to help you and to ensure your rights to live and work safely are protected. Please come forward to seek help, the deadline to do so is this Wednesday.”
Councillor Shaista Aziz, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Communities
Staff and volunteers at Europa Welcome are available Mondays to Thursdays for clients and organisations supporting them to get in touch, for email or phone advice, or to make an appointment for help with EUSS applications. Further information about this service is on the Asylum Welcome website. You can also contact them on 07719128054 or by email europawelcome@asylum-welcome.org.
For more information about applying to the EU Settlement Scheme visit the GOV.UK website. For support with applying to the EU Settlement Scheme before the deadline visit Asylum Welcome’s website.
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