pre-settled status

Pre-settled status is a legal immigration status granted to individuals from the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who arrived in the UK before the Brexit transition period ended in December 2020. It allows them to live, work, and access certain public services in the UK for up to five years. After five years, they can apply for settled status, which provides longer-term rights and certainty of residence. Pre-settled status is an important step for those planning to stay in the UK long-term and ensures their rights are protected under the UK's immigration system.