IMA Clarifies Proposed Immigration Changes
The IMA has clarified that proposed immigration changes won’t impact EU and EEA EFTA citizens and their family members who are protected by the Brexit Withdrawal Agreements.
Yesterday (20 November), the UK Government announced planned changes for the UK immigration system. These include changes to the system by which people can settle in the UK.
We recognise that the announcement may have led to concern among citizens who have, or are eligible to apply for, settled status through the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).
We can confirm that the proposed changes will not impact those that have status under EUSS and those that are eligible to apply.
The UK Government issued a consultation document, which says on page six:
“In line with the UK’s obligations under the Withdrawal Agreement, settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) is out of scope for both this consultation and the planned reforms. Grants of settlement related to the Windrush Scheme are also out of scope for both this consultation and the planned reforms. There will be no changes implemented for either scheme in relation to the settlement reforms.”
We have confirmed that this statement covers those with pre-settled status, those with pending applications and those who are eligible to apply for EUSS, as well as those that currently hold settled status. This includes those who are eligible to apply for EUSS but do not fall within the protection of the Withdrawal and Separation Agreements (known as the ‘extra cohort’).
“If, however, you are concerned that your rights have been impacted, we continue to urge you to report your concerns to us via our complaint’s portal here. More information about what the rights are can be found on our website.