Advice in place for EU citizens

THE many citizens of EU countries living here in London have been understandably concerned about what Brexit will mean for them, but I hope they can take comfort from a document published recently telling them how things will work.

The Government’s advice confirms that much will remain the same for EU citizens, regardless of the outcome of negotiations. They will, for example, continue to be able to access services and benefits as a comparable UK national.

It explains that there will be some necessary changes. For example, only EU citizens living here by 29 March 2019 will be able to obtain settled status and they must do so by 31 December 2020. The Prime Minister has recent try announced that no fee will be payable.

After a three year transition period, EU citizens’ rights to family reunion will be brought into line with those of UK nationals and non-EU nationals.

Notably, the advice promises a digital service to provide help for applicants completing their application form online - and later a telephone and face-to-face service.

Details will be published on the government website at www.gov.uk/government/publications

I hope anyone who may be worried will check the advice.

Syed Kamall, Conservative MEP

for London