Since the UK left the European Union, the rights of EU citizens living in the UK are governed by the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) rather than EU free movement law. For the thousands of EU nationals living in Longsight, Gorton, Levenshulme, Stockport, Bolton, and across Manchester, understanding these rights is vital for your daily life and future planning. As specialist immigration solicitors in Manchester, MCR Solicitors helps EU citizens protect and exercise their rights.
Your Immigration Status
EU citizens who applied to the EUSS should now hold either:
- Settled status — equivalent to Indefinite Leave to Remain, giving you permanent residence rights
- Pre-settled status — temporary leave for up to 5 years, which should be upgraded to settled status
If you have not applied, speak to an immigration lawyer in Manchester immediately as late applications may still be possible.
Work Rights
With settled or pre-settled status, you have full right to work in the UK including:
- Employment with any UK employer
- Self-employment
- Starting your own business
- Working in any sector without restrictions
Your employer can verify your right to work using the Home Office online checking service. Your EUSS status serves as proof of your right to work.
Healthcare and NHS Access
EU citizens with settled status have the same NHS access as British citizens. Those with pre-settled status also have NHS access, though there have been some cases of confusion. If you experience any difficulties accessing healthcare at GP surgeries in Gorton, Longsight, or hospitals across Manchester, our immigration solicitors can advise on your rights.
Benefits and Public Funds
EU citizens with settled status can access public funds including Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, and Child Benefit on the same basis as British citizens. Those with pre-settled status may face restrictions depending on whether they have a qualifying right of residence (working, self-employed, or self-sufficient).
Travelling In and Out of the UK
Settled Status Holders
You can travel freely but must not be absent from the UK for more than 5 consecutive years. An absence of more than 5 years will cause you to lose your settled status.
Pre-Settled Status Holders
You must not be absent for more than 2 consecutive years. Additionally, absences may affect your ability to accrue continuous residence towards settled status.
Bringing Family Members
EU citizens with EUSS status can apply for family members to join them under the EUSS family permit route. Eligible family members include:
- Spouse or civil partner
- Unmarried partner (in a durable relationship)
- Children under 21
- Dependent parents and grandparents
This is a separate route from the standard UK family visa and has different requirements. Our immigration lawyers in Manchester can advise on which route is best for your family member.
Applying for British Citizenship
EU citizens with settled status can apply for British Citizenship after holding settled status for 12 months. This gives you a British passport and full citizenship rights. Many EU nationals in Manchester are now taking this step for added security post-Brexit.
Common Issues for EU Citizens
As one of the leading Manchester law firms for EU immigration, we regularly help with:
- Pre-settled status expiring — upgrading to settled status before your leave lapses
- Digital status issues — problems sharing or proving your status with employers or landlords
- Travel issues — re-entering the UK with EUSS status and no physical document
- Benefits disputes — being wrongly denied access to public funds
- Late EUSS applications — applying after the June 2021 deadline
Protect Your Rights
If you are an EU citizen in Manchester and need advice on your immigration rights, contact our immigration solicitors in Manchester today. Call 0161 466 1280 or email [email protected]. We serve EU nationals across Longsight, Gorton, Levenshulme, Stockport, Bolton, and all of Greater Manchester.
Need Legal Advice?
Our experienced solicitors are here to help. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
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