EEA nationals who have lived in the UK for 5 years are eligible to apply for permanent residence status. With the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, it is advisable for EEA nationals to secure their immigration status by obtaining permanent residence documentation. Permanent residence provides advantages such as making future British citizenship applications easier, assisting children's citizenship claims, and helping non-EU family members remain in the UK. EEA nationals are encouraged to contact a solicitor for assistance with their permanent residence application.

1. EEA NATIONALS IN UK?-APPLY FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE NOW
Following The EU referendum decision to for the UK to leave the European Union it would
now be wise to secure your immigration status. The free movement of workers is not
guaranteed in the future.
In light of the uncertainty ahead with regards to immigration policy, it is important to
safeguard your position in case of any adverse changes. If you obtain a ‘document
certifying permanent residence’ in the UK you may be in a better position to remain in the
UK.
The document may be necessary in the future to provide solid evidence of your right to
permanent residence in the UK.
What is permanent residence? Under EU regulations, European nationals
automatically acquire a permanent right of residence in the UK after five years continuous
residence if they have been in any of the following categories: workers, jobseekers, self-
employed, students, self-sufficient and retired persons. The document certifying
permanent residence is the documentary evidence of their permanent resident status.
Advantages of permanent residence:
1. Requirement for British citizenship
To apply for a British nationality an EEA national must have a document which confirms
their permanent residence in the UK. After a year of holding the permanent residence
document you may apply for British nationality.
2. Children- If you want to register your child as a British citizen your permanent residence in
the UK will help your child’s British nationality application;
3. If your family members are non-EU nationals and they want to join you or remain with you
in the UK having permanent residence can assist your family member’s application to join
you or remain with you in the UK;
4. Having a permanent residence document can assist with your claim for any public funds
you are entitled to in the UK.
For expert advice and assistance with your application to the Home Office for Permanent
Residence please contact Business Immigration Solicitor, Shamaila Khan on
shamaila@londonlawpractice.com or call us on 020 8343 6042.
Website: www.londonlawpractice.com