Family members joining an EU citizen in the UK now usually have three months to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme, counted from their last legal entry into the UK rather than their first. The change took effect on 8 October 2026 as part of Statement of Changes HC 584, laid before Parliament on 3 September 2026. This is general information only, not personal immigration advice — always check the official GOV.UK page, as rules change.

What changed on 8 October

Previously, the three-month window was generally counted from first entry. Since 8 October, for joining family members it runs from the last time they legally entered the UK. The change does not apply to those who entered without an EUSS Family Permit and have had an application refused; their deadline is still counted from the entry before their first application. HC 584 also expressly allows qualifying EUSS holders to be granted settled status without making a new valid application, and extends protection for children with pre-settled status in education in the UK, so they can finish their education, along with their primary carer.

Digital-first checks

The Home Office is phasing out physical documentation in favour of the UK Visas and Immigration digital system. Travellers should make sure their passport is linked to their UKVI account before arriving at the border, as airline systems now communicate directly with UKVI digital records and a failure to sync documents can lead to boarding denials or lengthy delays at passport control. Families entering the Family Returns Process can now also raise a human rights claim with Home Office staff directly, without a formal application or fee.