Withdrawal Agreement Residence Cards
Withdrawal Agreement Residence Cards: What Are They and Who Needs Them?
Following the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, a lot of things have changed for EU nationals living in the UK. One of the most significant changes relates to their right to reside in the UK. Under the Withdrawal Agreement, EU citizens and their family members who were living in the UK before 31 December 2020 have the right to continue living and working in the UK. To secure this right, they need to apply for a Withdrawal Agreement residence card.
What is a Withdrawal Agreement residence card?
A Withdrawal Agreement residence card is a document that proves an EU citizen’s right to reside in the UK under the Withdrawal Agreement. It is a physical document that is similar in appearance to a biometric residence permit (BRP). It contains information about the holder’s identity and status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
Who needs a Withdrawal Agreement residence card?
EU citizens and their family members who were living in the UK before 31 December 2020 and wish to continue living and working in the UK after that date need to apply for a Withdrawal Agreement residence card. This includes EU citizens who already hold a valid Permanent Residence document. The deadline for applying for a Withdrawal Agreement residence card is 30 June 2021.
What are the benefits of having a Withdrawal Agreement residence card?
A Withdrawal Agreement residence card provides proof of an EU citizen’s right to reside in the UK under the Withdrawal Agreement. This means that they can continue to live, work and study in the UK and access public services such as healthcare. It also means that they will be eligible to apply for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme after five years of continuous residence in the UK.
How to apply for a Withdrawal Agreement residence card?
EU citizens and their family members who were living in the UK before 31 December 2020 can apply for a Withdrawal Agreement residence card online or by post. The application process is similar to the process for applying for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. Applicants will need to provide proof of their identity, their residence in the UK and their relationship with an EU citizen.
In conclusion, a Withdrawal Agreement residence card is an essential document for EU citizens and their family members who wish to continue living and working in the UK after 31 December 2020. It provides proof of their right to reside in the UK under the Withdrawal Agreement and ensures that they can continue to access public services and apply for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. If you are an EU citizen living in the UK, make sure you apply for your Withdrawal Agreement residence card before the deadline on 30 June 2021.