The UK Home Office has recently introduced a significant update for individuals holding pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS). As part of this update, pre-settled status holders who are approaching the expiry of their status will now be automatically considered for conversion to settled status, removing the need for a separate application. This new process aims to simplify the transition and help individuals continue living and working in the UK with greater ease.
If you’re a pre-settled status holder, you may have been expecting to apply for settled status once you reach the five-year mark. However, thanks to this new automated process, if you meet the criteria, the Home Office will carry out the necessary checks and, if eligible, automatically grant you settled status. Importantly, you don’t need to take any action for this to happen.
What Happens If Your Status Is Not Automatically Converted?
In cases where the automatic checks do not result in the granting of settled status, the Home Office will notify you. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as missing information or a failure to meet the continuous residence requirement. In such cases, or if you don’t want to wait for the automated process, you can still apply for settled status independently as soon as you become eligible.
For those who are unsure about the status of their application or would like to avoid delays, consulting with an experienced immigration advisor can make all the difference. Our team specialises in handling complex cases and will ensure that your application is fully prepared and submitted correctly, increasing your chances of a successful outcome.
Challenges Of Proving Continuous Residence
Amongst other eligibility requirements one must meet for successful outcome of the settled status application, the key requirement is demonstrating continuous residence in the UK for at least five years. This can be difficult for some, particularly if there have been periods of absence due to factors beyond their control. For example, travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, school closures, medical emergencies, or family obligations may have impacted their ability to meet the residence requirement.
If you’ve encountered such challenges, it’s important to know that opportunities remain to apply for settled status. In these situations, providing sufficient documentation to demonstrate your time in the UK is crucial. While the automated process may not always account for exceptional circumstances, individuals can still make a case for meeting the continuous residence requirement through alternative evidence.
Navigating the EUSS Process With Our Expert Team
For pre-settled status holders, especially those facing difficulties in having their status automatically converted, the process can feel overwhelming. It’s important to stay informed about the criteria and what steps to take if your application is not automatically processed. Being aware of your rights and the available options can help ensure that your status is correctly updated, allowing you to continue living and working in the UK.
Our experienced team at Quastels will come up with the solution to ensure your continued right to reside in the UK. We understand the challenges you may face and are committed to supporting you through the process with professionalism and dedication. If you’re a pre-settled status holder and unsure about your next steps, please contact us.
