Amidst the ongoing anxiety and uncertainty regarding Brexit, 3.5 million EU nationals have been left in limbo, unclear what their rights are and what their future in the United Kingdom looks like.

I am grateful, therefore, that Home Secretary Sajid Javid has announced that the EU Settlement Scheme is now fully open to applicants, which aims to safeguard the rights and freedoms of EU Nationals that they currently enjoy, regardless of the manner of European departure.  This means that employment, healthcare, pensions and benefits for those who gain ‘settled status’ will be protected.

To date, about 280,000 have been made, but the Home Office assures me that technical kinks have been ironed out and the scheme is fully operational and ready to receive more applicants.  The Home Office adds that the free application process is designed to be simple and straightforward, involving the confirmation of identity, residence and the declaration of any criminal convictions.

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