EU nationals and their families who want to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021 have to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme. The test phase for the scheme launched this week allowing some people to apply. It opens fully on 30 March 2019.

To apply, the fee was £65 for over 16s and £32.50 for under 16s. However, the prime minister told the House of Commons yesterday that no fees would be charged and refunds would be given to anyone who had paid already.

The prime minister said: “I can confirm today that when we roll out the scheme in full on 30th March, the government will waive the application fee so that there is no financial barrier for any EU nationals who wish to stay. And anyone who has or will apply during the pilot phase will have their fee reimbursed.”

May said she is waiving the fee after listening to the concerns of MPs and organisations like campaign group “The 3 Million” group, which was set-up after the EU referendum to protect EU nationals in the UK.

The deadline for applying will be 30 June 2021 or 31 December 2020 if the UK leaves the EU without a deal.

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Who needs to apply?

If you’re an EU citizen or a family member of an EU citizen, you’ll usually need to apply. This includes if you either: were born in the UK but are not a British citizen; or are married to a British citizen and you’re from the EU.

You do not need to apply if you’re an Irish citizen (but your family members from outside either the UK or Ireland will still need to apply); you have indefinite leave to enter the UK; or you have indefinite leave to remain in the UK.