European & EEA Applications

European and EEA immigration applications can involve complex legal requirements, particularly following changes to the UK’s immigration framework. Whether you are applying under the EU Settlement Scheme or seeking to secure or confirm your status in the UK, it is essential that your application is prepared carefully and in line with current regulations.

At BHD Solicitors, our specialist immigration solicitors provide clear and practical advice on a wide range of European and EEA applications. We advise individuals and family members on eligibility, residence rights, and status under the relevant rules, ensuring that applications are supported by accurate documentation where required. We also assist where applications have been refused or where further representations are necessary.

We understand the importance of securing your immigration status. Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the process, ensuring your application is managed efficiently and with care.

Contact our European and EEA applications solicitors in London and Croydon

For European and EEA applications guidance and a free telephone consultation, call our London or Croydon offices today on 0208 681 5128 and speak to one of our senior lawyers.

Our European and EEA applications services in London and Croydon

EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit

EU Settlement Scheme family permits are entry clearance documents that allow eligible non‑EEA family members to travel to the UK to join or accompany their relevant EU, EEA or Swiss relatives. These permits must be applied for from outside the UK and must be in place before travel.

The EU Settlement Scheme provides a route to immigration status for EU, EEA and Swiss citizens and their eligible family members who were resident in the UK before 31 December 2020.

Those with five years’ continuous qualifying residence are typically granted settled status, while those with less than five years’ residence are usually granted pre‑settled status. Holders of pre‑settled status can later apply to convert to settled status once they have accumulated five years’ continuous residence.

The deadline for applying to the EU Settlement Scheme was 30 June 2021. Late applications may still be considered where reasonable grounds for delay are demonstrated.

Applications must be carefully prepared and supported by appropriate evidence to meet the detailed requirements of the scheme.

The rate of refusals for EEA applications in general has been on the rise, so ensuring that your application is adequately prepared before it is submitted is becoming increasingly important.

Our immigration lawyers ensure that applications are prepared to the highest standards and the process is kept as seamless as possible for our clients.

Frequently Asked Questions about European & EEA Applications

Can I still apply for an EEA family permit?

The EEA family permit has been replaced by the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) family permit. Applications under the former EEA Regulations are no longer accepted. If you are a non-EEA family member of a relevant EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you may still be able to apply for an EUSS family permit, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.

This includes demonstrating a qualifying family relationship and that the sponsoring EU or EEA citizen holds status under the EU Settlement Scheme or otherwise meets the relevant criteria.

What is the EU settlement scheme family permit?

The EU Settlement Scheme family permit is an entry clearance document that allows eligible non-EEA family members to travel to the UK to join or accompany a relevant EU, EEA or Swiss citizen.

It is issued under Appendix EU (Family Permit) of the Immigration Rules. The permit enables entry to the UK for a limited period, during which the holder must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to obtain immigration status. It does not itself grant settled or pre-settled status.

Who is eligible to apply for an EU settlement scheme family permit?

Eligibility for an EU Settlement Scheme family permit depends on the applicant’s relationship to a relevant EU, EEA or Swiss citizen. Eligible applicants may include spouses, civil partners, durable partners, dependent children, dependent parents, and certain extended family members.

The sponsoring EU or EEA citizen must usually hold settled or pre-settled status or be eligible under the scheme. The family relationship must generally have existed before the relevant specified date and must be supported by appropriate evidence.

Do I need an EU settlement scheme family permit if I am a non-EEA family member?

A non-EEA family member usually requires an EU Settlement Scheme family permit to enter the UK for the purpose of joining or accompanying a relevant EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, unless they already hold a valid UK immigration status that permits entry.

The family permit facilitates entry to the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme framework. After arrival, an application must be made to the EU Settlement Scheme to obtain pre-settled or settled status.

Is the EU settlement scheme family permit free to apply for?

Yes, the EU Settlement Scheme family permit is free of charge. There is no application fee payable to the Home Office when submitting an application for this permit. In addition, there is no immigration health surcharge associated with the family permit application.

However, applicants may still incur costs related to obtaining supporting documents, translations, or travel arrangements.

How long is the EU settlement scheme family permit valid for?

An EU Settlement Scheme family permit is normally valid for six months from the date of issue. During this period, the holder may enter the UK on multiple occasions.

The permit does not extend beyond its expiry date and cannot be renewed. Before the permit expires, the holder must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme from within the UK in order to secure pre-settled or settled status and remain lawfully in the country.

What status should I apply for after arriving in the UK with the EU settlement scheme family permit?

After entering the UK with an EU Settlement Scheme family permit, the holder must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme. Depending on the length and nature of their residence, they may be granted pre-settled status or, in some cases, settled status.

Pre-settled status is usually granted where the applicant has not yet completed five years’ continuous qualifying residence in the UK. The application must be made from within the UK.

What is the deadline for applying to the EU settlement scheme after entering on a family permit?

There is no fixed statutory deadline expressed as a specific number of days. However, an application to the EU Settlement Scheme must be made before the EU Settlement Scheme family permit expires.

Applicants are expected to apply as soon as reasonably practicable after arriving in the UK. Failing to apply before the permit expires may result in a loss of lawful status and the right to remain in the UK.

Get expert advice from European & EEA Applications solicitors in London and Croydon

As an established UK immigration law firm in Greater London, we can draw upon our vast resources to provide tailored, practical and affordable solutions to support you while offering a personalised and caring service.

For more information and to arrange a consultation with one of our senior UK immigration solicitors, contact your local branch in London or Croydon.