Around 7,000 EU, European Economic Area and Swiss citizens living in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have yet to apply for Settled Status (EUSS) to stay in the UK according to the latest Government statistics.
Up to October 2020, a total of 10,700 people have successfully applied for the status in Cornwall and 100 on the Isles of Scilly.
The deadline for applications to the EUSS scheme is June 30, but people are being urged to make their applications as soon as possible to ensure they’re allowed to stay in the UK.
Citizens Advice Cornwall has set-up a special team dedicated to helping people with their applications and is encouraging people to seek advice if they need assistance or have any questions about the process.
EUSS team adviser, Ineta Simelionyte, said: “We know many people from Europe who have come to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to work in agriculture and food processing plants, as well as those who have lived here for many years with children and grandchildren, have yet to apply for Settled Status.
“It’s really important that you apply because after June 30 this year you may be asked to prove your right to get a job or use the NHS.”
The application process is free of charge and will allow European citizens to stay in the UK, work, study, use the NHS, claim the state pension and rent a home.
Caroline Goodman, who also works for the Citizens Advice EUSS team, added: “European workers are vital to the economy of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly so we would like employers, as well as friends and neighbours, to encourage them to apply or seek advice at an early stage.”
For full information on how to apply to the EUSS scheme, click here.
