EU Settlement Scheme: settled vs pre-settled status in 2026

The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) is how EU, EEA and Swiss citizens and their family members keep the right to live and work in the UK after Brexit. It grants two statuses: settled (permanent) and pre-settled (temporary). Which you get depends on how long you have lived here.

What is the difference between settled and pre-settled?

Settled status (a form of indefinite leave to remain) usually goes to those who have lived in the UK for 5 years in a row. It has no time limit and gives the widest rights, including a route to citizenship. Pre-settled status is for those with less than 5 years; it is temporary and can be moved to settled over time.

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How do you move from pre-settled to settled?

Once you reach, usually, 5 years' continuous residence, you can apply for settled status — the application is free. An important update: the Home Office now automatically extends pre-settled status by 5 years before it expires (you get an email), and in some cases the status is automatically converted to settled if its records show you meet the requirements. The extension can be cancelled if it decides you no longer qualify.

What does it cost, and what are the deadlines?

Applying to EUSS is free. The main deadline for most people was 30 June 2021, but that does not apply if you already hold pre-settled status and are moving to settled. For joining family members, the deadline is usually based on their last arrival after 31 December 2020. Late applications are considered where there are grounds, which are checked separately.

How do you prove your status?

EUSS status has no physical card — it is digital. Your rights are protected from the moment you apply and receive a "certificate of application" until a decision or any appeal is resolved. You can view and prove your status (to an employer or landlord, say) online through the GOV.UK "view and prove your immigration status" page. Joining family members have automatic protection for 90 days from arrival, after which they must prove they have applied.

Why it is worth checking

Even with automatic extension, log in to your account and check your details: it is the digital status that employers, banks and landlords look at. If your contact email is out of date, you could miss the extension email. Keep your UKVI account details current.