Brexit: Public test phase of EU settlement scheme begins
The test phase opens to the public on 21 January. To support colleagues we’ve developed several resources and have appointment slots available to access the Home Office app on an Android smart phone.
All EU nationals who live in the UK with a valid biometric passport, as well as non-EU family members who have a valid biometric residence card, will be able to take part in the public test phase.
By taking part, you’ll be able to make an early application for your new UK immigration status and, if successful, you won’t need to apply again for the same status once the scheme opens fully.
Making an application during this test phase is entirely voluntary and, as things currently stand, there will be no change to your current rights under EU law until at least the end of 2020. If you decide not to apply now, you’ll be able to do so when the scheme is fully open, which is due to happen by 30 March 2019.
How to apply
You will be able to access the application form on GOV.UK . A link to the application process will be available on this page once the test phase begins.
By applying during the test phase, you will be providing the Home Office with valuable insight into how the system is performing so they can make further improvements ready for the scheme to be fully rolled out.
University employees who have applied for settlement can reclaim the £65 fee via e-expenses, by logging in with your normal username and password.* The details and conditions of the reimbursement scheme, and step by step guidance for completing a claim, are available in the Immigration Reimbursement Guidance document.
We’ve also widened the current interest free loan scheme if you need help with the cost of applying for your family.
*Update: Please note that the Prime Minister has announced (21 January) that EU nationals applying for the EU Settlement Scheme will not have to pay a fee when the scheme is fully rolled out by 30 March. We'll share further information once known. Read about the announcement on GOV.UK.
Who can apply?
The next phase of testing means that all EU nationals are able to apply, provided they have a biometric passport. If you’re not from the EU, but you’re here as a family member of someone who is and rather than a visa, you have a valid biometric residence card, you can also apply.
You will need to scan the chip in your passport using the ‘EU Exit: ID Document Check’ app which is available to download on Android smart phones from the Google Play Store. If you do not have an Android smart phone, or yours does not have the 'NFC' technology required (you can find this in your device settings), you can book a slot to use a University device.
If you are an EEA (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) or Swiss national, you will not be eligible to take part in the test phase, but you will be able to apply once the scheme is fully open.
Irish nationals do not need to make an application through the EU Settlement Scheme, but you can if you wish.
Support for colleagues
Access to an Android smart phone to complete your application: To make an appointment to use the University device, follow this booking link, add your name to the left-hand column, select the slot that suits you best and press ‘send’.
FAQ (updated 12.02.19): Our updated FAQ document answers your questions on the EU Settlement Scheme, the public test phase and the financial support offered by the University. Download the FAQ
Sample scenarios (updated 17.01.19): We’ve updated our handy sample scenarios to guide you through what action you might need to take, depending on how long you have been a resident in the UK. Download the sample scenarios.
One to one meetings: These sessions are free of charge and are for University colleagues to discuss their individual cases. If you're interesting in booking a personal meeting, please contact Lisa Courtney
Questions about your application: For queries about an application made during the test phase, contact the EU Settlement Scheme Resolution Centre by calling 0300 123 7379 (inside the UK) or +44 (0) 203 080 0010 (outside the UK). Find out about call charges at gov.uk/call-charges. You can also ask a question using the online submissions form.
Guidance on settled and pre-settled status for EU citizens and their families: The GOV.UK website holds information on what settled and pre-settled status means, who should apply, settled status if you're under 21, getting settled status in less than five years and applying for settled status. Visit the website
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