Settlement Scheme for EU Citizens to be launched in March 2019

As we approach the 100 day mark until the United Kingdom leaves the European Union, Brexit is still causing a large amount of uncertainty for EU citizens living in the U.K.  The Catholic Bishops of England and Wales have been monitoring the situation closely and also share in the uncertainty and concern.

Apart from those who are uncertain about their future, others are inevitably in a state of ignorance and unaware that Brexit will affect their immigration status.

In March 2019, the Government is due to launch a Settlement Scheme. All EU citizens living in the UK will be required to make an application if they wish to remain here after Brexit. However, Irish citizens will not be required to apply as their rights are separately protected.  If you are uncertain about your status to about anyone else you may know visit gov.uk/settled-status-eu-citizens-families for further information.

Many parishioners, priests and religious in our Diocese will be affected.  The Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales have released an official statement on the scheme along with more information, which can be downloaded below.  Please make this available far and wide.

Statement on the Settlement Scheme for EU Citizens