Automatic Status Renewal (EUSS)
The Home Office have announced that in September 2023, those who hold pre-settled status and who are nearing the current expiry date of their pre-settled status will automatically have that status extended by 2 years. It is no longer required to submit an extension application or contact the Home Office as it will be automatically reflected in their digital status. The pre-settled status holders will be notified once this has been applied.
This has been done to ensure that no current holder will lose their immigration status due to not having made a second EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) application. Additionally, where they have submitted a second application to the EUSS and are awaiting a response, they will maintain their pre-settled status through its current expiration date.
However, it is important to note that those who hold pre-settled status and have been living in the UK for a minimum 5 years will still be able to make a further EUSS application to switch to settled status. You can visit https://www.gov.uk/eusettlementscheme to apply for settled status.
In addition, the Home Office have declared that in 2024, measures will be put in place to automatically switch pre-settled status holders to settled status if they are eligible without the need to make an EUSS application. Further details are yet to be disclosed.
It is best advised, whether you have pre-settled status or settled status, to continue to use the view and prove service to evidence your rights in the UK. This is accessible at https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status.
Maintaining your contact information, such as your email address, in order to receive updates or information regarding your EUSS status is crucial if you have pre-settled or settled status. In addition, it is important to update the Home Office when you are issued a new passport or national identity card to avoid delays at the boarder when travelling. If you are yet to update the Home Office, it is recommended that you travel using the document you used to apply to the EUSS.
If you are a visa national with pre-settled or settled status, you should always continue to travel with your in-date biometric residence card. When returning to the UK after travelling abroad, if you have acquired British citizenship since receiving settled status, you must use a valid British passport or a proof of entitlement to the right of abode that can be placed in a valid foreign passport.
You can update your contact information using the links below:
- https://www.gov.uk/update-uk-visas-immigration-account-details
- https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status
By Hana Barzinji