Publication date: 26.03.2025
My name is Inna Fedorova, I am a lawyer from Sunderland, UK. My main area of expertise is legalization and citizenship. As an experienced lawyer, I provide qualified assistance in applying for social security benefits and residence permits in the UK, guaranteeing efficiency, effectiveness and maximum results at every stage of the process.
Initial Data. A Latvian citizen had been living in the UK for over ten years but was unsure how to apply for permanent resident status (EU Settlement Scheme) after Brexit.
Solution. A lawyer provided consultation, helped her submit the required documents, including proof of residence. When a delay occurred due to missing documents, I contacted the Home Office on her behalf to resolve the issue.
Result. A few weeks later, the client received confirmation of her status, securing her right to reside in the UK.
EU Settlement Scheme – Protecting the Rights of EU Immigrants
The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) is designed for citizens of EU, EEA, and Switzerland residing in the UK, as well as their family members. This scheme allows applicants to secure their right to remain in the UK after the country's exit from the EU.
The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) is a UK immigration program introduced after Brexit, allowing citizens of EU, EEA (European Economic Area), and Switzerland, along with their families, to obtain the right to permanent residence in the country.
Key Features of the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
Who is eligible?
Citizens of the EU, EEA, Switzerland, and their family members who were residing in the UK before December 31, 2020.
Types of Status:
- Pre-Settled Status (temporary status) – for those who have lived in the UK for less than 5 years.
- Settled Status (permanent status) – for those who have lived in the UK for 5 years or more.
Benefits of the EU Settlement Scheme
- Right to live and work in the UK.
Access to healthcare (NHS), education, and social benefits.
Possibility of obtaining British citizenship after 12 months with Settled Status.
The main deadline was June 30, 2021, but certain categories of people can still apply (e.g., in case of exceptional circumstances).
Lawyer Inna Fedorova will provide a consultation on the possibility of obtaining the EU Settlement Scheme and assist in preparing the necessary documents for the application.
How to Apply for the EU Settlement Scheme?
- Online via the "EU Exit: ID Document Check" mobile app.
Through the UK Home Office website.
Submit documents proving residence in the UK (utility bills, bank statements, employment contract, etc.).
Conditions for Obtaining British Citizenship
Obtaining British citizenship through the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) is possible but requires meeting several key criteria.
Who Can Apply?
Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland who have received Settled Status can apply for British citizenship if they:
Have lived in the UK for at least 6 years (5 years for Settled Status + 1 year waiting period before applying).
Have not violated UK immigration laws and regulations.
Have proven English language proficiency (if not exempt).
Have successfully passed the "Life in the UK" test – a knowledge test on the country's culture, history, and laws.
Have proven they have "Good Character" – meaning they have no serious criminal convictions or violations.
How to Apply?
- Check eligibility for the application.
Submit the application online via the UK Home Office website (cost: around £1,500).
Provide the following documents: passport or ID card, proof of Settled Status, evidence of continuous residence in the UK (bills, tax documents, etc.).
Undergo biometric data collection (fingerprints and photo).
- Wait for a decision – typically takes up to 6 months.
Important to Know!
If you hold Pre-Settled Status, you must first obtain Settled Status, then live in the UK for another year before applying.
Some EU countries do not allow dual citizenship – it is important to check this before applying.
For obtaining documents through the EU Settlement Scheme, as well as British citizenship, it is advisable to seek help from a qualified lawyer. Inna Fedorova has successful cases in processing various benefits and legalizing the status of migrants. She provides consultations, assists in gathering necessary documents, and, if needed, prepares applicants for interviews.
