EEA Family Permit Replaced: Understanding the New EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit

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If you were planning to apply for an EEA Family Permit to join your European family member in the UK, you might be surprised to learn that this route no longer exists. Since Brexit, the UK government has introduced the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Family Permit as its replacement. This means that if you are a non-UK family member of an EEA national who started living in the UK before December 31, 2020, you can still join them—but under the new rules. Navigating these changes can be confusing and stressful, but Immigration Solicitors4me is here to make the process smooth and easy.

What Was the EEA Family Permit?

The EEA Family Permit allowed non-EEA family members of European citizens to enter and live in the UK. It was a free visa that provided entry for up to 6 months, after which applicants could apply for residence under EU law. However, after the UK left the European Union, this permit was abolished on June 30, 2021. Now, applicants must use the EUSS Family Permit instead.

What is the EUSS Family Permit?

The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Family Permit is the new visa route for non-UK family members of EEA nationals who were already living in the UK before December 31, 2020. If your EEA relative has pre-settled or settled status, you may still qualify for this permit. It allows you to:

• Enter the UK and stay for up to 6 months


• Apply for pre-settled or settled status once in the UK


• Work, study, and access healthcare


• Eventually apply for British citizenship

Immigration Solicitors4me  guide you step by step, ensuring that your application is successful without unnecessary delays.

Who Can Apply for the EUSS Family Permit?

To qualify, you must be a family member of an EEA national who:

• Was living in the UK before December 31, 2020


• Has pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme

Eligible family members include:

• Spouses or Civil Partners – Must have been in a relationship before December 31, 2020


• Unmarried Partners – Must prove they were in a long-term relationship before Brexit


• Children and Grandchildren (under 21) – Can apply if their EEA parent has settled status


• Dependent Parents or Grandparents – Must prove financial dependency

If you meet these criteria, Immigration Solicitors4me can help you prepare a strong application to avoid delays or refusals.

What Documents Are Required for the EUSS Family Permit?

To prove your eligibility, you need to submit:

• Your copyright or travel document


• Proof of your relationship (marriage certificate, copyright, or proof of partnership)


• Evidence that your EEA family member has settled or pre-settled status


• Proof of residence in the UK before December 31, 2020


• Evidence of dependency (if applying as a dependent parent or grandparent)

Immigration Solicitors4me  double-check all your documents to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.

How to Apply for the EUSS Family Permit?

The application process involves:

• Filling out an online form on the UK Home Office website


• Uploading all required documents


• Attending a biometric appointment (if required)


• Waiting for the Home Office decision

Processing Time: The decision usually takes 6 to 8 weeks, but delays are common. Applying correctly the first time is crucial to avoid rejections.

What Are the Benefits of an EUSS Family Permit?

• Free to apply – No visa fees involved


• No financial requirement – Unlike other visa categories


• Work and study freely in the UK


• Pathway to settlement and British citizenship

Why Choose Immigration Solicitors4me?

Applying for the EUSS Family Permit can be complicated, especially with Brexit-related changes. A single mistake can lead to delays or refusals, making it harder for you to reunite with your family. Immigration Solicitors4me  provide:

• Expert guidance on eligibility and documents


• Application preparation and submission


• Legal representation in case of refusals


• Support for pre-settled and settled status applications

We take the stress out of the process, ensuring that your application is correct, complete, and successful.

Common Reasons for Refusals & How We Fix Them

• Missing Documents – We make sure you submit everything required.


• Lack of Proof of Relationship – We help you gather solid evidence.


• Incorrect Form Submission – We carefully fill out all details to avoid errors.


• Failure to Prove Dependency – We guide dependent parents and grandparents on required proof.

With Immigration Solicitors4me, your chances of success are much higher.

What Happens After Getting an EUSS Family Permit?

• You can enter the UK and live with your family.


• You can apply for pre-settled or settled status once in the UK.


• You have the right to work, study, and access healthcare.


• After 5 years, you can apply for British citizenship.

Conclusion

The EEA Family Permit no longer exists, but the EUSS Family Permit still allows families to reunite in the UK. If you are a non-UK family member of an EEA national, this route can help you join your loved ones and build a future in the UK. However, the rules are strict, and mistakes can lead to refusals and delays. That’s why it’s essential to get expert legal advice from Immigration Solicitors4me.

 Call us today for a free eligibility check!

 Email us to start your application.

 Visit our website for professional immigration support.

Reunite with your family in the UK—Immigration Solicitors4me is here to help!

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