What does the European Temporary Leave to Remain (ETLR) scheme mean?
- After the UK leaves the EU on 29 March 2019 (if there is no Brexit deal), EEA citizens will be able to enter the UK but will need to apply for ETLR to stay longer than 3 months
- EEA citizens who are granted ETLR will be able to stay in the UK for 36 months from the date of their application
- You will not need to apply for any immigration status or visa if you do not intend to stay in the UK for more than 3 months
What are the limits on the ETLR?
- ETLR will be a temporary, non-extendable immigration status. It will not give indefinite leave to remain, lead to status under the EU Settlement Scheme or make EEA citizens eligible to stay in the UK indefinitely.
What if an EEA citizen wants to stay longer than 36 months?
- They will need to apply for immigration status under the new immigration system, which will come into effect from 1 January 2021. Those who do not qualify will need to leave the UK when their ETLR expires.
- Alternatively, if you’re an EEA citizen who enters the UK before the UK leaves the EU, you’re eligible to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK. EEA citizens and their families will be able to remain in the UK indefinitely if they are granted settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
For more information and guidance for EU citizens coming to the UK with no Brexit deal, click here.
