5. Why do we need physical documentation?

It is essential that people who register with the EUSS receive physical documentation. All other migrants and British citizens can choose to obtain physical documentation to prove their status.   The Government has denied this right to EU nationals and their families. We know this will lead to discrimination.  We cannot rely on an untested online database as the only means of evidencing…

4. If people are granted automatic settled status, will there be incentives to apply?

EU nationals and non-EU family members will need to register, or they will face difficulties in their daily life. They must evidence their status in order to evidence their entitlements to apply for a job, rent accommodation or access services such as benefits and housing.  The Government can create fair incentives that encourage people to register. Removing someone’s status is a disgusting and unacceptable approach…

3. If people are not forced to apply, will there be another Windrush?

During the Windrush scandal, those whose right to remain was under threat had legal status but were unable to evidence their rights, leaving them vulnerable to harmful hostile environment policies.   EU nationals and family members who do not apply under the EUSS will be left with no legal status whatsoever.   After the EUSS cut-off point far more people will fall out of status, with similarly devastating real-life consequences to those faced…

2. What do we need instead?

JCWI is calling for a ‘declaratory scheme’ that will grant all EU citizens and family members resident in the UK automatic settled status and provide physical documentation as proof of status.   This is the only way to prevent hundreds of thousands of people from being criminalised overnight and ensure our Prime Minister and Secretary of State keep their promise of granting automatic right to…