We can provide advice and assistance to people who have a right to reside in the UK through EU free movement rights.
Since the referendum on membership of the EU there has been great uncertainty for EU/EEA nationals in the UK and British citizens in the rest of the EU.
For at least as long as the UK remains in the EU, European and UK law will continue to provide rights of free movement for all EU/EEA nationals and their family members.
EU nationals and their direct family members are not required to obtain documents proving their rights or residence but may choose do so.
If you plan to apply for British citizenship proof of permanent residence must be submitted with the application.
Extended family members from outside the EU, including non-married partners, must hold a Residence Card until they are entitled to apply for proof of permanent residence.
EU/EEA nationals may gain permanent residence status after having lived in the UK for a period of five years throughout which time they must have been engaged in certain activities:
- Working
- Self-employment
- Job-seeking
- Studying
- Self-sufficiency
Different conditions apply to each of these activities; for example students and self-sufficient people must hold comprehensive sickness insurance.
In addition there are certain circumstances when permanent residence can be applied for earlier including at retirement and after a relationship breakdown.
We can help with:
- Advice about residence rights
- Applications for proof of Permanent Residence (required for applying for British Citizenship)
- Residence Card applications
- Family Permits
- Applications for members of UK nationals who have lived in another EU country (“Surinder Singh” cases)
- Derivative rights applications including for carers of British citizens
- British Citizenship and passport applications including for children
Please note: the government have been publishing information including proposals for EU citizens after the UK leaves the EU including its plans for a new “settled status”.
If you would like an informal discussion about your own situation then please contact us